Related
The threads on custom ROMS are generating lots of posts.
Some questions are asked multiple times, some are never answered (because lost in the flow)... making it hard to take a clear decision about with custom ROM to flash, if any at all.
Thus, I'd like to use this thread to discuss about the "pros and cons" of each method, or rather the "possibilities and limitations" of them.
For the moment, this would include the three following ROM:
- The stock ROM (the one you get which your fresh Shield TV)
- The StockRestyle 3.0 ROM, provided by @zulu99, see the thread here
- The Full Android Marshmallow ROM, provided by @zulu99, see the thread here
The goal is not to encourage you to go in one or the other directions, but to provide objective arguments. This is why I wrote "possibilities and limitations" are preferred to "pros and cons"
Please comment in this thread, and I'll update the following posts regularly.
1) The stock ROM
Link to Nvidia Open Source Resources and Drivers here
No operation required, this is the standard ROM already installed on the Shield TV -> Just Plug and Play!
Shield TV game controller and remote fully working wireless (Wifi-Direct), including Voice search, and headset plug.
Can play Nvidia specialized games - Doom 3/Metal Gear Solid/Android based or Geforce Now streamed.
Play store limited to Leanback-compatible apps (Shield TV runs Android TV)
- Thus, the number of compatible apps is limited (also due to the absence of touchscreen, obviously)
- Some apps cannot be installed at all, or cannot be run properly
Standard applications (not available as Leanback-compatible apps, e.g. web-browser...) can/need be sideloaded
- By defalt, sideloaded apps don't appear in the standard Home menu
- Sideloaded apps can be started using Sideload Launcher or Apk2tv
Standard applications can also be installed directly from Play store using Market Helper. NOTE: this requires root access.
Keyboard and Trackpad devices do not produce too much efficiency due to rom limitations
Unability to use a remote desktop
Apps related
No web brower installed, but Chrome (or others) can be sideloaded.
Skype for Leanback isn't working: calling buttons cannot be selected, no video call button.
Kodi can be installed. It allows you to stream content directly to your TV
To be checked:
Amazon fire TV 4K remote and game controlled can be paired using the Shield Accessories tool. (Works on the StockRestyle)
2) The StockRestyle 3.0 ROM
Link to the thread here
Requires to flash the ROM. The process is rather simple, but as always to avoid risks you should know what you are doing. Reading carefully the main post of the thread related to this ROM, and at least the last comments and those from zulu99 is recommended.
Full Play store available (access to more games. Yet, touchscreen-only games cannot be played with a game controller)
Aptoide TV filters apps that are compatible with Android TV. For example, for Skype, the standard Aptoide app provides the last version of Skype (6.26 for the moment, which is not working on this ROM), while Aptoide TV provides the version 6.15.
Shield TV game controller globally working
- Some issues reported with the new version of the game controller: Home and Back buttons not working well.
- Voice search button first starts Google search, a second press (not a double press) starts Voice search
The Nova interface is designed for touch and/or mouse and/or keyboard actions
- Most of the interface can be used using a remote or a game controller
- But, the configuration often requires a mouse (or at least, is faster to use with a mouse)
- A wireless all-in-one keyboard is a good device to use with, e.g. Logitech K400 Plus (others are good too, but this one is battery-friendly)
Web browser usable in full desktop mode, e.g. Chrome (without ads if you download adaway, root required)
Multitasking may look limited. Yet, you can use Alt-Tab on the keyboard to switch between apps
No Android Navigation (softkeys) or Status Bar (e.g. You do not get to see notifications/download progress/etc)
Amazon fire TV 4K remote and game controlled can be paired using the Shield Accessories tool. They won't appear in the list of connected devices, but they are working well, including microphone.
It may feel like a bit of a strange mix, not really remote-friendly, but not really full Android capable either. However, this is the only know solution to keep the proprietary tools from NVidia working while having a standard Android interface.
Apps related
Skype 6.14 and 6.15.x are fully working, i.e. audio and video calls, using UVC webcams (tried with Logitech C920 and C930)
Some easy fixes
Settings App: First step after install - Go to Widgets> Nova Activity and selecting Settings app so that is shows up on desktop
Remote/Controller Friendly Navigation in the App-Drawer: Nova-launcher setting for App-Drawer needs to changed from Vertical to Horizontal
Foreign external keyboard can be remapped using one of the many apps available
- External Keyboard Helper Pro is working well in my case: Android interface in English (US), external keyboards in German (QWERTZ, Logitech K400 Plus and Logitech K830). You can try the demo version for free. PS: I'm not linked in anyway to the developers of this app.
3) The Full Android Marshmallow ROM
Link to the thread here
Requires to flash the ROM. The process is rather simple, but as always to avoid risks you should know what you are doing. Reading carefully the main post of the thread related to this ROM, and at least the last comments and those from zulu99 is recommended.
Smooth, fast, responsive ROM
Full Play store available, more standard applications should be compatible
Leanback only applications can also be launched using an tweak tool: QuickShortcutMaker (see video here)
Shield TV game controllers not working wireless (using Wifi-Direct) but working as normal a standard gamepad when connected via USB
Shield TV remote control working (using Bluetooth), including audio. [Confirmed here]
Long-term update is questionable because it depends only on the person who is providing this ROM (even though this person is very active)
To be checked or confirmed by several users
Some slower performance (frame rates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1) [Mentioned here]
- This could indeed be a counterpart of all what is running in the background of full Android (see here). In others words, full Android is more general in the sense it offers more possibilities, but at the same time it cannot be expert in all those aspects. Thus Android purist would prefer to go for this ROM while Nvidia gamers may prefer to stay on the Stock or StockRestyle ROMs. In the end, YOU make the final choice.
Shield TV remote control working (using Bluetooth), including audio.
- Working: here
- Not working well: here
You could possibly add another or include as an option to #1.
Stock Rooted with Market Helper (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2146216) device spoofer or the other hack.
Options are good.
IamSonoma said:
You could possibly add another or include as an option to #1.
Stock Rooted with Market Helper (http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2146216) device spoofer or the other hack.
Options are good.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It is quiet in here. I was interested in seeing some responses. Maybe an anonymous poll.
If I had more time, less family, less places to fish I would run 3 boxes and compare them all. I would always need to have one that is stock and family friendly for the wife and the kids.
When i bought mine a month ago I was hoping there was more community support but it may take more time to catch on. Luckily Zulu gives us two options to toy with. They work pretty good. Statistically speaking and I could be wrong, About 90% of the people making a purchase like this just want to plug and play and have no desire to tweak or tinker. I know this because out of the 6 in my family I am the only one that even thinks "can I root it?" when I am researching it. The rest of my family just want to plug and play. They want simple.
As for me I want it to over-clock, play games without CDs (Wii<family loved this but I have a tone of unwrapped games> and xBox with external HDDs), aging my self here play a game using two 5 1/4" floppy drives with all files working on 2 disks instead of 6 disks(AD&D SSI games), running android on my tilt 2 slide out keyboard sell phone, I could go on.
I really hope development picks up. I only wish I could help more. I do encourage Zulu and others to continue.
IamSonoma said:
It is quiet in here. I was interested in seeing some responses. Maybe an anonymous poll.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was also hoping for more feedback.
Indeed, the last few weeks I was struggling to find the best ROM that would suit my need. After reading the 200+ pages of post in the thread of the ROM proposed by @zulu99, I had hard time to extract the right information.
Thus, the idea of this post: I want to present objective points of comparison, I have no apps to sell.
The point is also to avoid the post like "Which ROM should I pick?". If the advantages and limitations are clearly listed, everyone should be able to make his/her own decision, all ROMs are good, it only depends on what you want to do with it.
PS: In my case, I wanted to 1) keep the Nvidia Shield TV game controllers (and my Fire TV 4K remote and game controllers), and 2) to have Skype working. Thus, my final choice for the StockRestyle ROM.
Mythamp's Review of the Roms
Stock Rom
Pros:
1. Ideal for basic 4K TV owners who want to stream all current channels of 4K content
2. Can play Nvidia specialized games - Doom 3/Metal Gear Solid/Android based or Geforce Now streamed
3. Remote and Controller work great
4. Kodi allows you to stream content directly to your TV
Cons:
1. Small selection of Android TV Apps
2. Browsers and Non-Android TV apps need to be side-loaded
3. Cannot install most Non-Android TV apps
4. Keyboard and Trackpad devices do not produce too much efficiency due to rom limitations
5. Unable to remote desktop into the device incase you wish to send remote instructions to download content so that you can come home and enjoy.
Overall:
The Stock Rom is unable to take advantage of Android. It is a cumbersome process for people who like quick responses. I would say it is as limited as any other 4k TV's with Android built-in apart from a few Nvidia games. Trust me, this does not justify the $150 investment.
Stock-Restyle Rom
Pros:
1. All of the pros of Stock Rom including full controller and remote support plus
2. Install unlimited Android Apps taking full advantage of the Google Play Store
For Example:
• Use "Airdroid" app (root required) to remote mirror your device from work and have all the content ready when you get home.
• Play thousands of Android games on your 4k TV
• Use Chrome in full desktop mode (root required) without ads (download adaway) - almost as good as a desktop Chrome. Great for quick browsing.
3. Less cumbersome to move around by using a Keyboard with Trackpad (I personally use the "Logitech K400 Plus")
Cons:
1. Multitasking may look limited - yet you can use Alt-Tab on the keyboard to switch between apps
2. Many Android apps (mostly games) require touch, which can be done using android mobile device with Droidmote installed. Some games can be played using the Keyboard/Trackpad combo but its a hit & miss.
3. No Android Navigation (softkeys) or Status Bar (Eg. You do not get to see notifications/download progress/etc)
4. It is technically not a Full/Clean Android as it has Nvidia's framework still builtin
5. Some easy fixes FYI
• Settings App: First step after install - Go to Widgets> Nova Activity and selecting Settings app so that is shows up on desktop
• Remote/Controller Friendly Navigation: Nova-launcher setting for App-Drawer needs to changed from Vertical to Horizontal
Overall:
The Stock-Restyle Rom is in my opinion the best rom for the Nvidia Shield TV. It opens the device to all the Android & Google Play Store goodie-ness, while allowing you to use the fantastic shield controller and remote to play/stream all nvidia and some android games. I have also personally found that android games run smoother on this rom than on the Full Android Rom (Maybe its because the rom is based on the nvidia framework, I could be wrong.)
Bottomline - install this rom before trying the rest.
Full Android Marshmallow Rom
Pros:
1. Amazingly smooth, fast, responsive rom
2. You get the full Android experience
3. Includes all the pros of the above Roms
Cons:
1. No support for Nvidia controller wirelessly, you can use it by plugging in the cable and installing keyboard drivers
2. Noticed some slower performance (framerates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1)
Overall:
The Full Android Marshmallow Rom is a great solution for Android purists. You will miss-out on the seamless (wireless) experience of playing all the Nvidia/Android Games. If someone can get the wireless controllers to work here, I will be the first one to shift over from stock-restyle rom.
- This is just my opinion on the roms based on my usage, I am sure many users have their unique needs which might not match my feedback, so please take all this with an open mind -
mythamp said:
2. Noticed some slower performance (framerates) in games from stock-restyle (feedback based on Rom ver. 1.0, not sure about 1.1)
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock, StockRestyle and full Android, on the gaming part, more precisly on Accelerated 3D Graphics, have the exact same components. Are Identical.
I extract this part from stock firmware and are Nvidia proprietary blob. ( every developer can compare the files )
Every Nvidia exclusive games are working on all 3 firmwares in the same way.
But in full Android you can have also more normal games compatible in addition to all Nvidia exclusive games.
Also for Audio and hardware video decode the 3 firmwares have the same components.
There is only one, very important difference between the 3 firmwares. Only full Android have the full Android framework, permissions and components and in the real life you can translate this as more compatibility with millions apps in Google Play. For the present and for the future.
just to be precise.
P.S.
But attention, don't forget that if you run Windows XP on a modern PC, for sure is faster than Windows 10. Why ? Because Windows 10 have more things.
I think that Android TV is not comparable with full Android for the simple reason that Android TV is a stripped down version of full Android.
But if you don't need everything that Android can offer, you can use also Android TV.
Another fact, very simple, is:
If you want everything that Android can offer on TV, a controller or a remote with only directional keys are not sufficient. And if you prefer only directional keys, you will have barriers, limitations and slow interaction forever. Instead if you use a better input device you can have also a full OS on TV that for me is better, because i can do things of both worlds.
It all depends on what you use and what you know, the most important fact is that you can choose.
Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!
grievous2004 said:
Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
it work, also audio.
*1
zulu99 said:
Stock, StockRestyle and full Android, on the gaming part, more precisly on Accelerated 3D Graphics, have the exact same components. Are Identical.
I extract this part from stock firmware and are Nvidia proprietary blob. ( every developer can compare the files )
Every Nvidia exclusive games are working on all 3 firmwares in the same way.
But in full Android you can have also more normal games compatible in addition to all Nvidia exclusive games.
Also for Audio and hardware video decode the 3 firmwares have the same components.
There is only one, very important difference between the 3 firmwares. Only full Android have the full Android framework, permissions and components and in the real life you can translate this as more compatibility with millions apps in Google Play. For the present and for the future.
just to be precise.
P.S.
But attention, don't forget that if you run Windows XP on a modern PC, for sure is faster than Windows 10. Why ? Because Windows 10 have more things.
I think that Android TV is not comparable with full Android for the simple reason that Android TV is a stripped down version of full Android.
But if you don't need everything that Android can offer, you can use also Android TV.
Another fact, very simple, is:
If you want everything that Android can offer on TV, a controller or a remote with only directional keys are not sufficient. And if you prefer only directional keys, you will have barriers, limitations and slow interaction forever. Instead if you use a better input device you can have also a full OS on TV that for me is better, because i can do things of both worlds.
It all depends on what you use and what you know, the most important fact is that you can choose.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
All the remarks have been considered in the comparison threads.
One question about the remote on full Android answered.
JulienPr said:
All the remarks have been considered in the comparison threads.
One question about the remote on full Android answered.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The remote works for me sometimes but I usually end up ditching it because it is a pain. Sometimes I can pause a show and walk away. Sometimes it does not. I am not sure if it is loosing sync or not.
Voice does not work. Volume control is iffy. It does pause videos with the volume slider on occasion. When I hit the home button it will sometimes go there. It has become useless to me. I am glad it was free.
My issues probably do not reflect the ROM(full android) but I remember it working when ever I picked it up on stock android. I am just not ready to go back.
IamSonoma said:
The remote works for me sometimes but I usually end up ditching it because it is a pain. Sometimes I can pause a show and walk away. Sometimes it does not. I am not sure if it is loosing sync or not.
Voice does not work. Volume control is iffy. It does pause videos with the volume slider on occasion. When I hit the home button it will sometimes go there. It has become useless to me. I am glad it was free.
My issues probably do not reflect the ROM(full android) but I remember it working when ever I picked it up on stock android. I am just not ready to go back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Maybe again an issue with the version of the remote or game controller.
I noticed that on the StockRestyle, the old version of the game controller was working perfect while the new version had issues with the Home, Back and Search buttons (both using the same firmware update).
Might it be the same with the remote? Is there an old version (with Home button represented by a house).
See the difference for the game controllers:
Version 1, this model is still the one you get when bought separately.
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Version 2, this model is the one included now with the shield.
JulienPr said:
Maybe again an issue with the version of the remote or game controller.
I noticed that on the StockRestyle, the old version of the game controller was working perfect while the new version had issues with the Home, Back and Search buttons (both using the same firmware update).
Might it be the same with the remote? Is there an old version (with Home button represented by a house).
See the difference for the game controllers:
Version 1, this model is still the one you get when bought separately.
Version 2, this model is the one included now with the shield.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have version 2.
IamSonoma said:
I have version 2.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I don't know if there was a "version 1" of the remote, I cannot find any trace of it.
But, since they change the design of the Home button to be a circle only on the V2 of the game controller, and that it's the same as the V2 of the remote, it wouldn't be surprising if there was a V1 of the remote with similar symbol as the V1 of the game controller.
@zulu99, which remote do you have?
Love this thread guys as I've been considering another ROM but didn't know the clear pros and cons of Full Android and now this ReStyle one which I'm very interested in. I have a few questions for anyone. Perhaps the answers could gain momentum for many others as you guys are absolutely right that AndroidTV's app selection isn't just lacking, it feels like AndroidTV apps exist and the consumers want them, but the interface for getting them or allowing users to simply inform specific developers the demand to support it is insanely behind. On the desktop play store you can't even sort or filter Android TV apps other than seeing these two specific links unless an active user is seeking blogs or postings regarding them.
Apps for Android TV
Games for Android TV
Gotta vent a bit the already known... feel free to skip down...
On the stock play store, you can search for apps but not having even top charts or proper categories other than the useless 'featured' in addition to strong limitations is hurting as a whole. Some of the biggest brands out there have no or heavily limited apps for ATV, including even many tv channels like TNT or ESPN. I think Nvidia or Google for the time being should at least allow the detection of a mouse and keyboard to least show apps that 'might work' rather than none and give the user the option to control that. Hopefully Android N will improve things with the Picture in Picture and maybe even DVR abilities. Love this box but even though Android is a strength, it's also a weakness in the shade of a very sensitive cycle. More users --> More developers thus more apps --> More users --> More developers --> etc... I feel like the users are there, but while developers are increasingly aware, it should grow faster, and Google should help that awareness.
Anyways my questions were:
1) Does HDMI-CEC still work? Currently in stock it works in turning on the tv and with the tv on its Source Input, off with tv, and controlled by tv remote but not with volume (shield remote controlling tv volume).
2) Any loss of functionality with Casting? More specifically I usually cast from Youtube, Plex, Google Photos, and Mirror Casting from Nexus phone.
3) Any loss of 4K support, including Youtube, Plex, VLC, MXPlayer, or hopefully introduction of HDR support (doesn't work natively on Shield perhaps because of the HDMI 2.0a not yet being implemented). I'm interested in keeping Full dynamic range and ability to toggle 4K 60 and 4K 24fps along with Plex (with Refresh Rate Switching for native 24fps support in 60 mode). So I guess along with this can AndroidTV specific apps still be installed or will the phone/tablet versions be installed instead? Example: Plex.
4) Is Adoptable storage still supported? I'm guessing when flashing the StockRestyle ROM we'll have to wipe the adoptable sdcard and essentially factory reset.
5) Can AptoideTV work just fine on stock? I'm going to probably try it tomorrow
While I personally don't play any of the Nvidia games, I'm looking to have the Stock Stability + current emulator/rom support (rooting for Wiimote support) + specific apps that are not supported on AndroidTV without having to constantly manually update them through sideloading. Apps I'm interested in include Google Apps including Google Photos + Logitech Webcam supported (Skype + Hangouts + FB Messenger) and possibly Amazon Prime Video but ideally if it can support at least 1080p or 4K. I also use Kodi but am still learning to use it.
I'm very familiar with modding on my Nexus 6P (TWRP, root, Xposed, with monthly updates) so was wondering if there was anything different I should know other than the obvious loss of a screen when adding custom recovery and rooting along with Nandroid backups. Has any one successfully backed up their stock ROM and restored it later? Also anyone root stock, then backup everything on Titanium Backup (sideloaded) and restore apps + data on StockRestyle ROM?
My set up is 16GB Shield Stock 3.0 not rooted yet + Samsung 128GB Pro+ microsdxc + Stock Controller + Remote, it's connected to a Samsung 4K SUHD UN65JS8500. Also using bluetooth Logitech keyboard + mouse, xbox 360 receiver, x360 controllers. Still waiting for possible DVB-S2 integration and maybe live tv solutions like silicondust.
grievous2004 said:
Great thread, I'm just trying to decide which to install on my Shield when amazon delivers it.
I'm really thinking of using Full Android but have bought the nvidia remote control too (mainly for the audio jack). So..
Is the Shield remote working or not on Full Android (is it bluetooth or works like the controller?). Can anyone point it out, please? Thank you!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
-> the shield remote is ok on full android.
I use it to watch movies with headset plug in ...but only the microphone function don't work
copticwalad said:
2) Any loss of functionality with Casting? More specifically I usually cast from Youtube, Plex, Google Photos, and Mirror Casting from Nexus.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I'm curious about this too. I like the idea of the shield basically replacing my chromecast, but with Full Android it looks like you can't cast TO it, but you can cast IT'S display like any other phone or tablet. Is it possible in full android to cast another device TO the shield with full android?
Sent from my SM-G900T using XDA-Developers mobile app
Hi all. I'm brand new to XDA and to anything having to do with customizing apps, but very eager to learn. I have been testing a few TV boxes like MeCool M8s Pro L, ubox (HKG), A95X Max etc... One thing I have noticed is while all claim to be Android TV boxes, some play apps in the Leanback version (such as MeCool) while others seem to be glorified mobile phone replicas.
One app, in particular, would be the MyTunerFree radio app. On the MeCool it can be used with a Dpad remote and works perfect, however on the A95X, it only opens in the mobile mode, with no option for the android TVmode, and you need a mouse toggle app, or actual mouse to use it. I have been searching online for ways to force an app to play in its TV version only, but cannot find much. I have seen suggestions with using app cloner, but even then it doesn't force the TV mode, just allows you to add an on screen pointer, which does not allow scrolling (hope I am making sense)
Does anyone have any suggestions on how to force the app to its TV mode while using a box that seems to have a mobile operating system? Or is there a developer setting on the box I could change to force all apps into TV mode?
Sorry if this has been dealt with. I searched, but didn't see much. Keep in mind I'm a newbie. Cheers
M
You're right but not all apps some apps works with all versions of android in other hand some you need to download it and install by the tv box
You can try "Set Orientation App" to force this into landscape mode.
This is the exact problem Im having with Pendoo X10 MAX, one app I always use with android tv is mx player pro, but this crappy little PendooX10 always launches mx player pro like I'm using it on a mobile device, and the option to launch in tv mode is missing from the mxplayer settings menu.
Sucks that nobody else is having this problem, was hoping someone had a fix for this by now.
leodawson said:
This is the exact problem Im having with Pendoo X10 MAX, one app I always use with android tv is mx player pro, but this crappy little PendooX10 always launches mx player pro like I'm using it on a mobile device, and the option to launch in tv mode is missing from the mxplayer settings menu.
Sucks that nobody else is having this problem, was hoping someone had a fix for this by now.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Sideload a oriantation / rotation app and set it to landscape mode. Should work with MX player and other apps
NOTE: There is separate thread for RetriXGold 3.0 Click Here, please be sure to post you question in the correct place.
Hello,
Regarding to the old release "Retrix Silver".. the new stable, advanced version is here...
Latest RetriX Gold (2.9.7.0)
Compatible with:
XBOX 1
Windows 10 (x64, x86, ARM)
Surface
Windows 10 Mobile
Other Devices supports UWP Applications
Expected to work on 15063 and above.
Get the latest release from GitHub (Click here)
What's New?
IMPORTANT UPDATE
New Effects System (GPU based)
Compressed files support (zip, 7z, rar, gz, tar) (using SharpCompress/Adam Hathcock)
Improved layouts
Improved performance (Thx DekuDesu)
Ability to see the updated pixels only
Improved XBox Menu
Fix core's log (Thx KimNynxx, Constantin)
Add instructions to import BIOS collection
Set any overlay you want
**Performance solution (I called it "Crazy Buffer"), as per my test on low end device I got very good results
Performance Tips:
To avoid high memory usage, load the game without compression
After many games you will play the app could get heavy (just restart it)
When the performance drop, just pause..wait..resume
Note: X86 & ARM Contains more cores
Enjoy
Effects System:
{
"lightbox_close": "Close",
"lightbox_next": "Next",
"lightbox_previous": "Previous",
"lightbox_error": "The requested content cannot be loaded. Please try again later.",
"lightbox_start_slideshow": "Start slideshow",
"lightbox_stop_slideshow": "Stop slideshow",
"lightbox_full_screen": "Full screen",
"lightbox_thumbnails": "Thumbnails",
"lightbox_download": "Download",
"lightbox_share": "Share",
"lightbox_zoom": "Zoom",
"lightbox_new_window": "New window",
"lightbox_toggle_sidebar": "Toggle sidebar"
}
Pixels Update:
Overlays:
Spoiler: Release 2.9.5.0
Improvements
Enhanced threads render
Important: threads render will help if your CPU able to handle multiple threads otherwise it will be slower
Spoiler: Release 2.9.3.0
Improvements
Pause/Resume button in game-pad
New threads render (Beta)
New Performance options
Minor fixes
Please note that 2.9.3 is Experimental - Slower performance expected.
Spoiler: Release 2.9.2.0
Improvements
Local notifications
Restore games list position after stopping the game
New Certificate
Update Issue Fixed
Set min target to 15063
Minor fixes
Spoiler: Release 2.9.0.0 - 2.9.1.0
Windows 11 Sound Effects (FROM 2.9.1)
Emulation Cores
TIC-80 Computer
Pokemon Mini
Watara Supervision
Fairchild ChannelF
NES (QuickNES)
Games FolderGames Folder now will be saved, you don't have to select it each time
System SFXYou can now mute all the system sounds/SFX
Spoiler: Release 2.7.9.0 - Release 2.8.0.0
Analog Control
Now you can use analog control to move
Analog control issue when user scale controls fixed
Sensors Control
Enhanced Sensors Movement Feature
Touch Control
Enhanced Tocuh pad custom scaling
All Settings related to touch pad moved to Advanced (Start icon) -> Gamepad
Retrix Tricks
Used for tricks and advanced options
Spoiler: Release 2.7.6.0 - Release 2.7.7.0
Release 2.7.7.0
In-Game
Options like (close, save, reset) moved to the top
Because if the user customize the controls and move them up it might block these options
Customization
Change scale point for controls from center to corner
This will be helpful if you want to scale only and the controls will be in the same position
Debug Menu
Debug menu moved out of Extras menu
Release 2.7.6.0
Games List
Games results will be cached until the user choose to reload the games list
Smart Rename
Auto rename for Arcade console enhanced & more accurate (but a bit slower on big games)
Sensors Movement
You can use your device sensor to move (Currently support [Left - Right - Up])
Note: If the option is not visible then your device doesn't have the supported sensors
GB Emulation
correct the option so the Super Gameboy games can be auto detected
Direct Restore
Just open the backup file and it will open Retrix and navigate to the restore process
Spoiler: Release 2.7.5.0
Release 2.7.5.0
Cores List
Add version number for each core (Very important for future usage)
Cores Update
You can update the current cores from local (.dll) files
Now I can release updates for the cores only and this will reduce the amount of Retrix updates
Touch Gamepad Buttons
Customize buttons positions (individually) now possible for each console
Auto Save
Auto save settings moved to saves menu at the top-left
Sound Effects
change "success" notification to a lighter sound effect
FBNeo
FBNeo games databases updated
Spoiler: Release 2.7.4.0
Release 2.7.4.0
PSX
Because of an issue related to the controller
Now.. when you start any PSX game you have to choose if you want to include the Analog control or not.
It's completely based on your game requirements
The issue
Some games was not detect the controller at all when the analog control included
Spoiler: Release 2.7.2.0 - 2.7.3.0 (XBox Special)
Release 2.7.3.0
Features
Added: Layout -> Show/Hide L2 R2 Touch Buttons
Added: 1X, 2X Touch Buttons:
1X: R1+L1
2X: R2+L2
Enhancements
If XBox menu appeared the game will automatically paused
The Game will resume after closing the menu
Fixes
Fix PSX (Old) + AnyCore open counter
Fix Actions Feature accuracy
Release 2.7.2.0 + XBox Special Enhancements
XBox
XBox/Gamepad Controls can be customized for each console as you like
XBox Menu (Fast & short way to save/pause/stop.. and more)
Show XBox Menu [Press Down + [Select/View])
Quick Save (Press Left + [Select/View])
Show Saves List (Press Right + [Select/View])
More Features
Touch pad can be customized for each console
Add CD Support option for Any Core
Compatibility list view: will show the skipped cores due compatibility issues
Reset AnyCore: You can delete all AnyCore files from the Settings Page
PSX (Old) Core re-added along with the new one (it might work if the new one fail with some games)
Enhancements
Now you can show/hide "Actions Keys" alone, no longer linked with Save/Load/Mute keys
Gameplay menu name changed to "Layout"
Show/Hide Special Keys moved to "Layout" menu
Show/Hide Actions Keys moved to "Layout" menu
Fixes
Fix Sega CD Console name in BIOS page (it was appear as SG-1000 by mistake)
Fix app was crash if the user hold on empty list
Fix PSX was not detect Gamepad in some games
Spoiler: Release 2.7.0.0 - 2.7.1.0
Release 2.7.1.0
Any Core
Now you can import multiple cores
All cores imported by Any Core feature can be full customized
You can use BIOS map to inform the system about the required BIOS files for the related core
Pinned mode: the core will be moved to the top
Touch Controls
Now you can fully customize the controls (Scale, Position)
Customization will be saved until the user choose to reset
Compatibility Detector (Beta)
If any core was not Compatible and caused any crash, will be skipped in the next start
If you lost/missed some cores try to reset the app data
Save State
Clean all saves option now available in the slots menu
Fixes
Fix blank snapshot on stop
Fix audio level after mute
Spoiler: Release 2.6.8.0 - 2.6.9.0
Release 2.6.9.0
Fix images caching issue
Move Arcade console to the top
Release 2.6.8.0
Important Fix
Fix the most important issue in the app, the issue was causing crash each few minutes
Other Fixes related to the performance
Tested for over 30 minute with auto save each 1 minute without any problem
Spoiler: Release 2.6.7.0
Games List
New Layout, the list is more advanced
You can use search to find your game
You can manage the recent games list like delete one game from the recent list
A snapshot will be taken from the game once you stop playing
Cartridges Icons for most consoles
Save Engine
New save engine
New list view will show the saves with screenshot
You can use 1-10 save slots (Managed by user)
Quick save now will save upto another 10 slots will be overwritten with the older (Managed by Retrix)
Auto save now will save upto another 15 slot will be overwritten with the older (Managed by Retrix)
All results will be sorted by the latest save
Performance
Finally audio buffer performance issue fixed
Delay Frames feature: will solve some performance issue
Audio Buffer Counter, helpful for monitoring the performance
Mixed Content
Now if you select games folder and the folder was contain many .zip games
Retrix will show only the supported games
App Layout
Enhanced Layouts
More responsive than before
Gameplay
Total time played will appear near to the game
Overall time played will appear under the recent list
Action Buttons
Action buttons can be used now for quick save/load
Audio
Add new option for audio levels (High Level)
Add audio effects (Echo, Reverb)
Mute audio can increase the performance
Sega VirtualPad
Show / Hide XYZ can be set now from the Layout menu
Extras
Added: Video only option (stop the audio)
Fixes
Fix Internal timers bugs
Fix Sega consoles BIOS files conflict
Fix FPS results
Resolve cursor direction when rotate the screen (Right / Left)
Known Issues
AS PER 2.6.5.0
Auto save could cause crash in some cases.
Atari Lynx requires "zipped" roms on ARM (only)
Spoiler: Release 2.6.6.0
New Console
Virtual Boy
Loading Game
Loading game detailed status
Auto-save (Thanks to Ranomez for the suggestion)
Auto-save each custom time ( 15, 30, 60, 90 Second ) + on stop
Rotate Game-play
Rotate game-play screen (Left/Right), very useful for some NDS games
Core Options (Thanks to Ranomez for the suggestion)
Save your customized core options as default values
Fixes
Fix FPS counter (was not accurate)
Known Issues
AS PER 2.6.5.0
Same list of issues will be fixed as soon as possible
Spoiler: Release 2.6.5.0
New Consoles
SEGA Saturn (Beta) (Desktop / Mobile)
Nintendo N64 (Beta) (Desktop / Mobile)
New NDS Emulation Core
Atari Lynx
Atari Jaguar (Beta) [Not fully stable, Game-pad controls not tested yet]
Vectrex
NES (Nestopia Engine)
Consoles Cores
Emulation Cores updated to the latest with new advanced options
In-Game Options
You can now update the emulation core options while playing
BIOS Files
Optional BIOS : (Extra Optional Bios Files can be used with some emulators)
Enhanced Page: Now the BIOS page looks better and more detailed , You can also filter the list by console name to get the exact files
Verification for Arcade, NeoGeo BIOS disabled because it's very hard to find them, some BIOS files online working you can now try these files
Nintendo DS
Now working without BIOS (You can still use optional BIOS)
Save State: Save state is active and stable
Core Options: Extra Core options are available now
Left Analog: now linked with the pointer position and it will move the cursor when it's available, tap on the left analog it will emulate the tap action (instead of touch)
Touch (Beta): Cursor / Pointer Work with touch as beta testing still need enhancements, not fully accurate but..
If you tap on the screen it will emulate the tap action, so you can use Analog to move the cursor and tap on the screen
You can choose the relation between the cursor and the analog control from "Core Options"
Sony PSX
More Performance Improvement added to PSX, specially for mobile devices
NeoGeo, Arcade
NeoGeo, Arcade, PolyMaster now using the latest emulation core FBNeo (Thanks for FBNeo Team)
Smart Filename resolver, whatever your file name is.. Retrix will resolve the name to the original
FBNeo SubSystem is active now, subsystem will allow you to run multiple types of games using Arcade console
Below list of the subsystems
CBS ColecoVision
MSX 1
NEC PC-Engine - NEC SuperGrafX - NECTurboGrafx-16
Nintendo Entertainment System - Nintendo Family Disk System
Sega GameGear - Sega Master System - Sega Megadrive - Sega SG-1000
SNK Neo Geo Pocket - Neogeo CD
ZX Spectrum
Note 1: the rom need to be inside zip file, and with custom name find it here
Visit: Libretro Documentation for more details about the bios files
Note 2: If Smart Name resolver didn't help, you have get the name manually
Note 3: If you are a fan of Arcade games please let me know the correct (sequence + colors )of the buttons after your try.
Consoles Icons
Consoles Icons Enhanced + More consoles icons added
The games will look totally different after install Retrix.
Log List
You can track the emulation logs while playing, very helpful for solving the problems
Safe Stop
Now the emulator will stop the game safely to reduce the issues that could appear when you are switching between the consoles
Auto Save
The game will be saved to Slot 10 when you stop the game , this option can be enabled from Extras check Auto Save
AnyCore
This feature will allow you to import new core directly from the storage
The core should be prepared for libretro API with the old VFS functions
Fixes
Fix SNES controls (Swap between L, R)
Fix NDS controls (Swap between L, R)
Performance menu name changed to Extras
Fix the crash when the game failed to load, now it's more stable than ever
Prevent NeoGeo, Arcade, PolyMaster from stop loading the game because of the CRC check
Always check the Log List to know what exactly the problem FBNeo Team prepared the core with very detailed log
Known Issues
Zip Files for PC-FX not working always, preferred to load the game unzipped directly from the folder
SEGA 32X not working on Mobile, some games might work
CCD roms is not working currently for PSX, try to get the ROM in other type like ISO
SEGA Saturn currently provide slow performance on Mobile
Nintendo 64 Slow performance and not fully stable
Arcade, NeoGeo 7z files supported by the core but it might not work for now with Retrix
Thanks for the original developer of Retrix ALBERTO FUSTINONI
Special Thank for Libretro as well
Thanks for Ranomez for testing and feedback
If you are new with Retrix please Visit Here for more details and help
Downloads (Updated on 3rd Jun 2022)
Get the latest release from GitHub (Click here)
AnyCore Files
Here a collection of libretro cores can be used in Any Core feature
Click Here
BIOS Files?
Maybe this page could help
https://github.com/archtaurus/RetroPieBIOS
Did you know?
Arcade core can run multiple system
CBS ColecoVision
MSX 1
NEC PC-Engine - NEC SuperGrafX - NECTurboGrafx-16
Nintendo Entertainment System - Nintendo Family Disk System
Sega GameGear - Sega Master System - Sega Megadrive - Sega SG-1000
SNK Neo Geo Pocket - Neogeo CD
ZX Spectrum
Once you select the game (.zip) choose "Yes" when Retrix ask you for smart rename so Retrix can detect the game system.
Great work on this, I'm currently using (or rather still testing) it on a Microsoft Surface 2 running Windows 10 ARM32 (desktop) build 15035, I'm glad it can be installed straight up but I'm noticing kinda unstable performance in the GBA emulator compared to the ARM32 build of Win32 retroarch or other emulators such as VBA10, my test game is Pokémon Light Platinum and I didn't play with the advanced options or such except enabling fill screen and autosave, it's not unplayable or anything but with the FPS counter on I did see it drop to 20 then go back to 40 and back to 60 in a matter of seconds (or even less than one second).
I wonder if adding a bios may somehow improve that?
I also tested the GG emulator and that one works really good and has some really nice options, I just wish core options saved so I'd not have to configure them every time I play.
Since I mentioned autosave I really gotta say that's a really great feature this has and although I've never seen it in an emulator before it's definitely one of those things I didn't know I wanted. Another suggestion would be to maybe give an option to also save every X minutes where X is an interval we set, that way if the emulator crashes or freezes (which it does if I accidentally rotate the screen but... I'll say that's related to the 15035 instability since other apps do also) we don't lose too much progress.
Ranomez said:
Great work on this, I'm currently using (or rather still testing) it on a Microsoft Surface 2 running Windows 10 ARM32 (desktop) build 15035, I'm glad it can be installed straight up but I'm noticing kinda unstable performance..
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I really thank you for your testing,
almost all the suggestion are great and will be added in the next release very soon.
Meanwhile there is an issue with the performance..
for some reason the performance will be dropped during the game
but you can restore the performance using (pause then wait for few seconds and resume)
I'm trying to solve this issue, and add more performance enhancements for the others.
Also thanks for informing me about the rotate issue I didn't know it, will be solved very soon.
If any other suggestions I will be glad to hear it.
astifan said:
I really thank you for your testing,
almost all the suggestion are great and will be added in the next release very soon.
Meanwhile there is an issue with the performance..
for some reason the performance will be dropped during the game
but you can restore the performance using (pause then wait for few seconds and resume)
I'm trying to solve this issue, and add more performance enhancements for the others.
Also thanks for informing me about the rotate issue I didn't know it, will be solved very soon.
If any other suggestions I will be glad to hear it.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I saw the performance tip and I tried it, didn't help, the GBA emulator just randomly decides to drop FPS, it's the same behavior since the very start of the game and as I said the GG emulator doesn't do that.
The rotation issue is probably just 15035 being broken, as I said it happens with other apps as well but the autosave x minutes thing would be nice, thank you.
I tried more emulators and gotta say this is nice., N64 as expected isn't really playable but Saturn seems kinda ok-ish, games that don't require fast reactions could be playable, PS1 is playable, probably a bit slower than other PS1 emulators we have available (PCSX-R, retroarch) but just marginally, DS is pretty good, better than the desmume port we have.
I was wondering one thing: are you considering adding reicast at some point? I know reicast (standalone) works great even on an old Android 4.2 tablet with 512 MB RAM and a single core 1.5 GHz CPU so thought that should work pretty well here.
New update released 2.6.6.0, please check the main message for change log and download links.
Ranomez said:
I saw the performance tip and I tried it, didn't help, the GBA emulator just randomly decides to drop FPS, it's the same behavior since the very start of the game and as I said the GG emulator doesn't do that.
The rotation issue is probably just 15035 being broken, as I said it happens with other apps as well but the autosave x minutes thing would be nice, thank you...
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Please check the new update above,
I attached old ARM cores... some of them could provide better compatibility
vba_next_libretro.dll (Game Boy Advance)
fceumm_libretro.dll (NES)
gambatte_libretro.dll (Game Boy / Color) [Touch controles issue with GB emulation]
genesis_plus_gx_libretro.dll (Sega [SG1000 - Master System - Game Gear - Mega Drive])
snes9x2005_libretro.dll (SNES)
You can load them using "AnyCore" In Settings Page
Currently the feature accept only one file (BIOS/In-Game Options not supported).
The latest release of Retrix can import multiple AnyCore file
You can customize them later from the games list
just import the file.. then restart the app or select later if you want to add another one.
AnyCore always will be the bottom of the list.
New Important Update Retrix Gold 2.6.7.0 , Check the main message at the top (download links updated)
Important Fix (2.6.8.0) just released, check the main message above (download links updated).
Windows 10 (x64) + Support Windows 7 SP1 that winodws 7 desktop or phone?
lohtse said:
Windows 10 (x64) + Support Windows 7 SP1 that winodws 7 desktop or phone?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Based on the package info for (x64) it's Desktop,
The mobile version (ARM) already modified to work with the minimum target.
but I didn't test the app on any system below W10
Tested only in windows 10 environment + mobile Lumia 950/XL
astifan said:
Based on the package info for (x64) it's Desktop,
View attachment 5190975
The mobile version (ARM) already modified to work with the minimum target.
but I didn't test the app on any system below W10
Tested only in windows 10 environment + mobile Lumia 950/XL
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I doubt it is windows 7 desktop as it is in appx format and you cannot install appx on windows 7
lohtse said:
I doubt it is windows 7 desktop as it is in appx format and you cannot install appx on windows 7
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
That's right, I should to mention in the description that you can change the extension to .msix
or next release I will keep the file in (.msix)
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/msix/msix-core/msixcore
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/msix/msix-core/deploy-with-msix-core
many thanks for informing me about this.
astifan said:
That's right, I should to mention in the description that you can change the extension to .msix
or next release I will keep the file in (.msix)
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/msix/msix-core/msixcore
https://docs.microsoft.com/en-us/windows/msix/msix-core/deploy-with-msix-core
many thanks for informing me about this.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
installing msix fils is still an issue for win7 with sp1 you will need to make sure the following is installed on the machine first Release MSIX Core 1.1 release · microsoft/msix-packaging · GitHub
also the instructions for cert file will not work due to not being offered local machine on windows 7
you will get the following error even after installing cert file
0x8bad0042 - Either you need a new certificate installed for this app package, or you need a new app package with trusted certificates. Your system administrator or the app developer can help. A certificate chain processed, but terminated in a root certificate which isn't trusted.
New Release RetriX Gold (2.6.9.0) (check main post) minor fix related to the images cache issue
I tested the latest version on my Surface 2 with Windows 10 ARM32 and performance in the GBA emulator seems to have improved, there's still a slight slow down (noticeable in both audio and video) compared to other GBA emulators we have available but it goes away if the retrix frameskip option is turned on.
Great work!
Ranomez said:
I tested the latest version on my Surface 2 with Windows 10 ARM32 and performance in the GBA emulator seems to have improved, there's still a slight slow down (noticeable in both audio and video) compared to other GBA emulators we have available but it goes away if the retrix frameskip option is turned on.
Great work!
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Many thanks for your feedback
Hmm... I noticed the GG emulator performance now has random drops also but it's no big deal, the retrix frameskip option fixes that.
Also playing for a bit longer 2 suggestions came to mind:
1. Could the touch controls be editable? On the tablet I feel I'd want them to be slightly bigger and more spaced out also (and a bit less close to the edge of the screen), that may just be me having thick fingers though. The controls were probably designed with a phone in mind and there I bet they're quite good but there's enough screen space on a tablet for bigger controls.
2. Would it perhaps be possible to add multiple AnyCore slots and we get to rename them so we know which is what?
Ranomez said:
Hmm... I noticed the GG emulator performance now has random drops also but it's no big deal, the retrix frameskip option fixes that.
Also playing for a bit longer 2 suggestions came to mind:
1. Could the touch controls be editable? On the tablet I feel I'd want them to be slightly bigger and more spaced out also (and a bit less close to the edge of the screen), that may just be me having thick fingers though. The controls were probably designed with a phone in mind and there I bet they're quite good but there's enough screen space on a tablet for bigger controls.
2. Would it perhaps be possible to add multiple AnyCore slots and we get to rename them so we know which is what?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
New Release RetriX Gold (2.7.0.0) (check main post), many important features has been added.
Update: Release 2.7.1.0 with protection layer to prevent any problems could happend becuase of Any Core.
Retrix Gold 2.7.2.0 + XBox Special Enhancements Just Released (Check the main post)
Retrix Gold 2.7.3.0 Released (Please check the main post).
https://www.xda-developers.com/pixel-mirroring-chromebooks/
February 15, 2022 11:52am Corbin Davenport
Here’s our first look at Pixel phone display mirroring on ChromebooksGoogle has been working behind the scenes for at least a year on a feature that would allow apps on your phone to be streamed to a Chromebook, similar to what is possible with Microsoft’s Your Phone service on Windows PCs or wireless Samsung DeX. Now we have our first look at the feature running, thanks to a new report from 9to5Google.
The screen mirroring feature, internally named ‘Eche,’ uses functionality included in the first Android 13 Developer Preview paired with a web app front-end. Unlike most other screen mirroring implementations, it generates a separate virtual display for apps with a larger viewing area, instead of rendering apps with your phone or tablet’s typical aspect ratio and display resolution. Even though this is intended for Chromebooks, 9to5Google was able to get it working on a Windows 11 PC.
App list (Source: 9to5Google)
Chrome screenshot (Source: 9to5Google)
The first evidence of this feature in development was slightly over a year ago, in February 2021, when code commits to the Chromium repository mentioned screen mirroring functionality. The feature popped up again in June, that time in Google Play Services, with a string that directly mentioned streaming apps to Chromebooks. However, this is the first time the functionality has been enabled and showcased in a functional state.
9to5Google also discovered that the feature will be available from the ‘Phone Hub’ on Chrome OS. Tapping on a notification or app icon will open a phone-shaped window with a video stream of the application, much closer to the functionality of Windows Your Phone.
Chromebooks have offered native support for Android applications for years, making this functionality less useful on Chrome OS than other desktop platforms. However, it could still come in handy for applications and services you can’t easily set up on Chromebooks (such as non-synced two-factor apps, or apps/games that don’t support Chromebooks). We’ll have to wait and see what the final version looks like.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Is console mode can do the same thing like MOTOROLA "ready for" ?
Cause I check every review on youtube , the page of console mode only can show up games , no youtube or something else.
Thanks for the answer.
It is nowhere near as nice as Ready For.
I am trying to switch from a moto g 100 and while the screen is much nicer, the overall OS is much worse.
You are able to add streaming services to the console mode and watch things. I have tried on you tube and netflix.
Basically, the app will be a mirror of the phone display, you use the phone as a "mouse". When you select a video to play the display will switch to a fullscreen landscape.
Oh , ok , so I can either mirror my youtube via hdmi or WIFI ?
Also while playing the content of youtube , can the phone multitask or it can only operate as a "mouse" ?
Yes, you can turn off mouse mode and use the device.
I have only tried via cable, not casting.
The game mode would work really well for a basic desktop mode with phone mouse control if we could adjust the dpi independently from the phone. When in game mode everything is just too large. It does work, but there is so much potential for this to be great. If you change minimum width to 1000, the adjustment does not carry over to game mode.
After the recent OS update, it looks like they added new options for resolution and removing letterboxing, but they are grayed out.
Readyfor is good, but only one thing can be better - in game mode I can't navigate in OS with gamepad like at real console, may be there is something for that?
At their website they talked about some combinations, R1+L1+start (launch media center, but doesn't work for me). R1+L1+select (launch side menu) works ok, but it is not enough. I'd like to have classic android navigation mapped to gamepad keys, possible?