# Smartphones May Enjoy Extended Support, Yet NVIDIA Still Outshines OEMs
In the realm of consumer electronics, the durability and support of devices frequently serve as crucial elements that affect buying choices. Although smartphones have made considerable advances regarding software updates and support durations, NVIDIA’s Shield TV remains a striking model of long-lasting support that even premier phone makers struggle to match.
## Key Takeaways
– **NVIDIA Shield TV** continues to receive updates nearly **10 years** post its initial launch.
– The latest update, known as the “second hotfix,” resolves issues such as **GeForce Now crashes**, **Match Frame Rate** glitches, and more.
– Regardless of its age, the NVIDIA Shield TV remains one of the **top streaming devices** available, buoyed by ongoing updates and AI-optimized 4K upscaling.
## NVIDIA’s Recent Update for Shield TV
In an unexpected development, NVIDIA has recently launched a new update for its Shield TV series, a device introduced in 2015. The update, identified as the **”second hotfix”** for version 9.1.1, became available starting October 8, 2024. This release tackles various concerns, including:
– Addressing a **GeForce Now crash** issue.
– Fixing problems related to the **Match Frame Rate** feature.
– Rectifying a **”no audio” problem** experienced with headsets linked through a controller.
– Eliminating a **distortion effect** when using the “RGB 8-bit Rec.709” display setting.
Additional noteworthy solutions include:
– The capability to reset the **HDMI 1.4 flag** through a factory reset.
– Fixing issues where **USB HDD/Flash drives** appeared corrupted after being hot-plugged.
– Correcting NAS folder info that displayed **0 B** instead of the real capacity.
– Ensuring that mounted storages are identified post upgrades.
– Addressing sporadic crashes in **DRM applications**.
These updates reflect NVIDIA’s enduring promise to keep the Shield TV relevant as it nears its 10th year.
## The Key to NVIDIA Shield TV’s Durability
The NVIDIA Shield TV has distinguished itself since its debut, and its sustained relevance is no mere coincidence. A crucial factor in its longevity is its **AI-driven upscaling** technology, which permits users to enjoy 4K content with enhanced detail. This functionality alone has enabled the Shield TV to remain a strong contender against newer streaming options, even as 4K streaming becomes increasingly common.
Besides its hardware strengths, NVIDIA has persistently provided **software updates** that fix bugs and incorporate new features. Such a level of support is nearly unprecedented in the streaming device sector, where most products are discarded after several years.
## Smartphones Are Improving, But Still Lacking
In recent times, smartphone brands have improved significantly in extending the support duration of their devices. For instance, **Google** now guarantees **seven years** of updates for its Pixel line, a considerable advancement over the typical industry lifespan of two to three years. This shift is encouraging, given that consumers are more frequently retaining their devices for extended periods.
Nonetheless, despite these advancements, smartphones still cannot compare to the lengthy support life provided by NVIDIA’s Shield TV. The Shield TV has benefited from nearly a decade of updates, a milestone no smartphone has yet achieved. Although phones may be offering greater support durations, they still do not measure up to the Shield TV’s exceptional history.
## Why NVIDIA Outperforms OEMs
The enduring nature of the NVIDIA Shield TV can be traced to multiple factors:
1. **Durable Hardware**: The Shield TV was crafted with robust hardware that has maintained its performance over time. Its **Tegra X1+ processor** and AI-enhanced upscaling features have kept it competitive, even as new devices emerge.
2. **Ongoing Software Improvements**: NVIDIA has continually provided updates that rectify bugs and bring forth new functionalities. This dedication to sustained support is uncommon in the tech industry, where most devices are often left behind after a few years.
3. **Specialized Market**: The Shield TV caters to a definitive demographic—those seeking a high-performance streaming device with gaming capabilities. This targeted audience has permitted NVIDIA to concentrate on providing a premium experience rather than competing with low-cost streaming options.
4. **GeForce Now Connection**: The Shield TV’s incorporation with **GeForce Now**, NVIDIA’s cloud gaming platform, has ensured its relevance in the gaming sector. As cloud gaming continues to expand, the Shield TV remains an attractive choice for gamers wanting to stream top-notch games without the need to invest in a gaming PC or console.
## The Outlook for Long-Term Support
As we edge closer to 2025, it’s evident that long-term support is becoming an increasingly vital consideration for consumers.
