Nvidia Shield TV: A Decade of Support Amidst Technological Evolution

The market for set-top boxes has stopped developing several years ago due to the proliferation of smart TVs. However, there is one iconic set-top box on the market, which has been supported by the manufacturer for 10 years.

On this occasion, the company released another software update (9.2.2). It brings a number of improvements, mainly related to accessibility functions for people with limitations. In particular, there are additional sound signals, interface changes, and support for TalkBack TTS in 23 European languages. With the Tegra X1 chip at the heart of the console featuring a Maxwell generation GPU, and Nvidia preparing to cease support for this generation in drivers, it is likely that updates for Shield will also come to an end. However, not all updates need to be related to the GPU. As for the new generation, Nvidia says nothing about it, and for the above reason, it is quite possible that we may never receive such a device.

Smart TVs are increasingly integrating features that replicate the functions of set-top boxes, including streaming apps and voice command systems. As technology becomes more advanced, they may marginalize the need for separate set-top devices. Nvidia has remained tight-lipped about any potential new generation of Shield TV devices, which might suggest that the company is focusing on other areas or waiting for a significant technological leap to justify a new product line.

Advances in accessibility include more robust voice command options and language support, which align with Nvidia’s updates. This area is expanding as companies aim to make technology more inclusive. Maxwell architecture GPUs are being phased out, potentially impacting devices still relying on older technology like the Nvidia Shield, which may no longer support future updates or run the latest applications effectively.