Nvidia is preparing to roll out firmware version 9.1.2 with support for Auro 3D immersive audio. Meanwhile, users have begun complaining about fullscreen ads.
According to Reddit users, these fullscreen ads have started appearing this month. The video ads play automatically in full screen with audio, requiring no prior user action.
Example of a fullscreen ad on Nvidia Shield. Photo: Mike_v_E, reddit
It is unclear in which countries fullscreen ads are currently active, but one affected Shield owner is in the Netherlands, while another Shield owner in Canada reports "I keep seeing the same ad over and over for the Hyundai Kona" car model.
Ads have in recent years gradually made their way onto the Android TV and Google TV home screens on Nvidia Shield and other devices. However, this marks the first instance of autoplaying fullscreen ads as far as we are aware. Google can update the user interface server-side – no firmware upgrade required.
The good news
Luckily, there is also some good news as Nvidia has provided details on the upcoming firmware update for Shield, set to roll out soon as version 9.1.2.
This update will introduce support for Auro 3D, an alternative immersive audio format to Dolby Atmos. Auro 3D currently lacks extensive content availability and widespread hardware support, so inclusion in Nvidia Shield is a first step in the streaming world.
It is also reassuring to see Nvidia continuing to support the Shield media player after a period without updates.
It should be noted that you may see your Shield report that it is currently on version 9.2.0, but this is actually the previous version (9.1.1) with a later hotfix.
Nvidia Shield Experience Upgrade 9.1.2– changelog
| In Nvidia's own words:
What’s New in 9.1.2?
AURO-3D
- This update unlocks full support for playback of high-resolution immersive sound in AURO-3D over HDMI. Connect your NVIDIA SHIELD TV Pro to an AURO-3D compatible decoder and enjoy the most natural 3D sound experience from streaming apps such as Artist Connection.
Other Enhancements
- Add support for Match audio content resolution feature when using a USB DAC
- Low latency enhancements when using Steam Link
- Android TV Security updates |
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