Review: Apple TV 4K (2d gen, 2021) Updated

In early 2019, I published an article about the hardware and software functionality that I hoped the next version of the Apple TV would include. In May of 2021, Apple finally released the second generation Apple TV 4K. We upgraded our seven Apple TVs, to this latest model. And, here is my review of the new Apple TV 4K’s capabilities. Continue reading Review: Apple TV 4K (2d gen, 2021) Updated

My Wish List for the Next Apple TV & tvOS Updated

It has been about two years since the Apple TV 4K was released, the average time between Apple TV refreshes. So, it is timely to consider what comes next. This is my wish list for the successor to the Apple TV 4K, as well as improvements to tvOS. It’s what I would build were I the product owner of Apple TV. As a videophile, I overindex on features like video and audio quality. However, my suggestions also are based on our family’s initial experiences with Apple’s new gaming service, Apple Arcade. Continue reading My Wish List for the Next Apple TV & tvOS Updated

Google Chromecast Audio with Multi-room Support Review Updated

Google’s multi-room audio distribution technology is based on the success of their video casting platform, Chromecast. In its second iteration, Google upgraded the video version of Chromecast to include Wireless-AC technology. Additionally, it released a new, audio-specific Chromecast device. Like the Airport Express, it supports both optical and analog audio out. Unlike the Airport Express, it is based on Wireless-AC audio and is much more error-resilient. And, it costs as little as $25 on sale, a quarter of the price of the AE.
Continue reading Google Chromecast Audio with Multi-room Support Review Updated

Nvidia Shield Android TV Review Updated

Since its first release in May 2015, the Nvidia Shield Android TV has been billed as the world’s best Android TV settop box. That continues to be the case as of December 2016. The Shield Android TV is also more powerful, technology-wise, than the Apple TV Gen 4, Amazon FireTV 2, or latest Roku. That said, the Apple TV is undeniably a better solution for Apple ecosystem users like my parents. Amazon’s ecosystem is a cost-effective solution, especially for Amazon Prime members; and the FireTV is also bolstered by Amazon’s investment in exclusive content. Meanwhile, the Android gaming ecosystem isn’t advanced enough to sway hard-core gamers from their Xbox One or PS4 game consoles. Continue reading Nvidia Shield Android TV Review Updated