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Nvidia Explores Next-Gen Shield: What Upgrades Could Come?
3 Feb
Summary
- Nvidia Senior VP expressed interest in a new Shield TV.
- Potential upgrades include HDMI 2.1, Wi-Fi 7, and AV1 codec.
- Customer customization for reducing interface ads is a key factor.
Nvidia's well-loved Shield streaming device, now a decade old, may see a successor. Andrew Bell, Nvidia's senior VP of hardware engineering, has stated he "would love to" see a new Shield TV box and that the company is actively exploring "new concepts." Although a new release isn't confirmed, the company will proceed if they find a concept they are "super-excited about."
A next-generation Shield could feature significant hardware upgrades. A new model would likely include HDMI 2.1 for 4K 120Hz output and processing power to support it, a jump from the current HDMI 2.0. Enhancements to Bluetooth and Wi-Fi are also anticipated, with a move towards Wi-Fi 7. Software updates are expected, moving beyond the current Android 11.
Priorities for a new device would include VP9 Profile 2 hardware decoding for YouTube HDR, the AV1 codec, HDR10+, and Dolby Vision profiles. Beyond hardware, the Shield's appeal lies in its software flexibility. The ability for users to customize the interface and reduce advertising is a significant draw, and it is hoped this will continue in any future iteration, distinguishing it from other streaming options.
The last Nvidia Shield model was released in 2019, featuring an impressive upscaler and powerful processor for its time. However, its hardware, similar to the original Nintendo Switch, and reliance on Android 11, along with the growing number of rivals, suggest that a refresh is due. Nvidia's own cloud gaming platform, GeForce Now, supports 4K 120Hz, a capability a new Shield could finally deliver.
