Here at htpcBeginner, the Nvidia Shield TV is our Editor's choice for streaming devices. While it's a top pick for media streaming, retro gaming, and cord cutting, the Shield TV now becomes one of the best smart home devices available. That's because you can now use Google Assistant and Samsung SmartThings on Nvidia Shield TV. [Read: 20 Best streaming apps for Nvidia Shield TV 2017: Movies, music, and more]
Nvidia Shield TV enters the connected home space
Now You Can Use Google Assistant And Samsung Smartthings On Your Shield Tv
This is major news for the intersection of entertainment and smart homes. Smart speakers offered a glimpse at what this niche could offer. But the Shield TV drastically expounds on that. In fact, hooking up a Shield TV to a receiver essentially transforms it into a giant smart speaker. I have mine running through a Denon AVR 1513 5.1 receiver. [Read: 5 Best wireless Nvidia Shield TV controller options]
What's really intriguing about this is that the Shield TV has morphed into an all in one device. The Pro model can act as a Plex client and server device. With a USB tuner, the Shield transforms into a DVR. You can use it for game streaming, as well as emulators.
For 4K and HDR, the Shield TV is undoubtedly the best set top box you can buy. With the addition of SmartThings and Google Assistant, the Shield TV adds a major area in smart home compatibility. Now it's possible perform actions like dimming lights with the Shield TV. Since its USB addon is a mere $15, and even comes in bundles with lights and motion sensors if desired, it's a phenomenal value for those seeking to cobble together a smart home. [Read: 5 best Kodi skins for Nvidia Shield TV 2017]
Connecting the dots: Use Google Assitant and Samsung SmartThings on Nvidia Shield TV
With Amazon's new Echo Dot as well as updates to the Shield TV, it's clear that the smart home space is increasingly focusing on entertainment. Typically, climate control and security are the main areas where smart tech blossomed. But devices like the Shield TV, Google Home, and Echo Dot each pay testament to the flourishing overlap in smart homes and entertainment.
Where do you see the smart home space next joining forces with the entertainment industry?
I am a staff writer at SmartHomeBeginner, and a freelance writer with a focus on tech media. I run Cup Of Moe and have been featured in Electromaker, MakeUseOf, The Penny Hoarder, TechBeacon, Cliqist, Bubbleblabber, DZone, and EpicStream. As an HTPC enthusiast, I'm quite fond of my Plex server and enjoy playing with my Raspberry Pi. When I'm not hammering away at my keyboard, I can be found drinking far too much coffee, running, and listening to vinyl.
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