QUOTE(fruitie @ Jul 4 2019, 02:25 AM)
While I'm happy with Minix U1 as it allows me to use all the apps I want but there's one thing which I dislike is the apps updating via Google Play is extremely slow. Nothing to do with the Internet speed but more to the slower OS. Am I the only one faces with this issue?

I have no intention to change my box yet as it still serves me very well. One of the best purchases I made in the recent years.

Erm.. Probably just yours.. I have no issue on mine.. Wired CAT6A cables.. I've experienced similar with an Android phone.. But it's connected via wifi and i'm guessing it's a router issue.. Using supplied C1200s.. Typically, toggling off and on the wifi does the trick.. Sometimes, I just switch from 5 to 2.4 and or vice versa.. Works too.
QUOTE(clivengu @ Jul 6 2019, 01:16 AM)
I read through the first few pages regarding different TVbox but I am still confused on what to get... There are just too many... I am confused mainly on the contents available for each different tvbox. My understanding is that, if it is running android OS, shouldnt they all can install the same apps and watch the same contents? Does it mean some seller are selling ahem version which is rooted with extra free subscription contents? Hope someone can enlighten me on this.
Currently planning to get a tvbox and these are my requirements:
1. can watch a lot of chinese/hk/taiwan drama/movies. These are mainly for my mother/mother in law , who prefer simple interface, Astro-style easy to navigate. Can leave them with the controller and they can just watch whatever they want.
2. I dont want something buggy , that may run out of service after running fine for a while... maybe this has more to do with the apps, than the device. Again, a buggy OS or system will just confuse the aunties in the house. And personally cant handle interface that will lags.
3. My budget can goes higher, if it worth it. I dont have 4k Tv though, n dont have crazy high speed internet. Just Full HD will do.
4. Personally I am more interested in Nvidia Shield. Because I like the gaming idea. That way the device can be use for dual purpose. But my question is , can Nvidia Shield do everything that other TV boxes can do? or it gotta be root illegally to have access to all the unlimited china/chinese contents?
Sorry for being so noob in this topic.. I know im way too slow to the game. btw my only experience with tv box is apple Tv which i only use to play youtube and netflix and occasionally rent movie from apple services.
I suggest you read through again and this time a little slower.. Yes, it's a lot to sink it.. but the general knowledge remains accurate. The Android OS running on these "TV Boxes" are of 2 variations..
A. Regular Android OS...This is the typical made for mobile OS (as per smartphones and tablets). However, it's (thru some hackery) made to "forget" it's a mobile only OS and instead, is made for the big screen. This is why it can be buggy for some and smooth for others. Not many manufacturers and or devs are capable of offering a smoother stable experience. Even then, there's no perfect box.
B. Android TV OS....This is the proper made for the big screen Android OS. This is what ships on devices such as the MiBox, some Beelink & MeCool boxes... And the Nvidia Shield. The rest should be running the mobile OS variation as above.
Now to tackle your questions..
1. Don't confuse device abilities with service abilities.. Understand this first and we can talk further. My default response for this is.. "Focus on getting a good rock solid box, then find services that match your requirements.. then bend that box to your will.. Often, you'll succeed. i know i did with my Minix Neo U1.. Done similar with Mecool & recently with the Beelink GT-King. For simple folks usage.. Just get them legit Astro and be done with it.. Any issues? they pick up the phone and ring em. Tech guy will show up and fix.. No hassle for you.. Decoder is easy to use and no fuss for them.. Using an Android box might be a difficult learning process for them. If you still want to go down the tvbox route? i suggest you look into Kodi and premium services that offer Kodi support. Set Kodi to auto run and let it be.. EPG, Info menu, easier remote control shortcuts,.. all will work splendidly..
2. Again.. Refer to 1 above..
3. If you don't have a 4K/UHD HDR TV with decent sound equipment? Then you won't be focused on playing UHD content all the time.. I'd say.. Save your money and stay away from the Nvidia Shield for now. It's primarily for those who already know their stuff and how to max (or almost) max it's beastly abilities..
4. Yes it can.. Again.. You have to know how to bend it to your will.. Else, follow earlier suggestion.. Get a decent box that's more affordable and good for FHD materials.. Then later when you've upgraded your AV equipment.. Perhaps a similar yet cheaper rival would have been produced or you grab the Shield then. I suggest for YouTube, Netflix, etc.. Use the Smart TV apps. As doing so, enable you to focus on buying a good box that does better at other things. Cuz typically, the cheaper ones that can do Netflix up to UHD, etc? like the Mibox.. sucks in other areas.