No built in chromecast support. So, not approved by Google?
It's probably running a custom Android TV ROM like this one . But from what I have read:
"Google Cast service works from Chrome browser, but apparently requires Google license to work from Android apps."
So yes it's real Android TV but with no cast functionality.
Apparently netflix also works at 1080p (the real ATV app).
I have this box except one without this remote with mic. It does have the Android tv launcher, but it's not the latest version of the launcher and Chromecast doesn't work
It's nice to see other developers trying their hand at the OS, but as others have pointed out, this lacks certification.
The S912 with Nougat deployed and an Oreo update in the future (which would reflect MeCool's usual level of software support) would have been a fantastic competitor to Xiaomi's offering with certification.
.. and it certainly looks like real Android TV on the pictures.
Can it be?
They advertise that it can be used with the official android TV remote app.
Surely Google would have to sign this off?
I'm guessing it is similar to other mecool boxes that have a custom ATV ROM and necessary DRM for neflix at 1080p, but I don't think it is real AndroidTV OS
Interesting, 3GB/32GB. That sounds pretty darn decent, would love to see a review. Highly doubt it'll get 8.0 though, buy it as is.
I'm really interested in knowing. Are you gonna get it?
Just search the model on YouTube and you'll find various reviews, apparently its either a ROM or a skin, the only thing for sure is that it's not the same as a shield TV or mi box.
Hmm. An assistant button. And a menu button.
Why risk it, it's the same price as a mi box?
I have one and like it better than the Nvidia shield! I had to drill holes in the top and hook up a pc fan to keep it cool. Gonna replace the heatsink soon too. The back button and keyboard work on my air mouse. Where as the shield was like a buffed up firestick. Freaktab.com has the Firmware for it.
The remote is very similar to the Xiaomi Mi Box. I like minimal designs, but one with volume buttons. Its got everything else one might need, ethernet, usb, microSD, 4k, etc.
chines box - chines fork of AndroidTV not aprproved by google, they port OS from some TV
Just remember Android = Open Source code, even Android TV.
For Chromecasting you need a Google Android TV licence because that comes with the necessary Google casting Keys.
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All these L1 DRM and HDCP 1.x capable MECOOL's that are now shipping basically have an unofficial Android TV image running underneath MECOOL's custom home launcher screen.
They come with an Android TV Playstore where you can directly install ATV Netflix and it will stream in 1080p with 5.1 DD+ audio. 4K YouTube works.
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The Freaktab Website has some very good Android TV ROM developers that give you an optimised and tweaked unofficial Android TV ROM with the regular Leanback Android TV home screen.
These ROM are very easily installed too - a simple ATV ROM - OTA update.zip using the inbuilt Update App and you are done. Plus these ROM developers actually provide a lot better ongoing support vs say Xiaomi with the Mi Box.
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New boxes like the Nougat - MECOOL M8S Pro L are also now shipping with Bluetooth Voice control remotes as well. This box is faster than a Mi Box due to it's superior AMLogic S912 chipset.
Plus any of these device can dual boot and run a really good version of 4K HDR LibreELEC Kodi Krypton. Which will be superior to ANY Android Kodi you can find running on ANY Android TV Box inc. the NVIDIA Shield.
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Downsides are no Chromecasting due to no Google casting keys. These cheap devices also have poor Heatsinks on the SoC, especially the S912's which do run a bit hot. Some simply DIY with Silver thermal paste to re-seat the heatsink is a good improvement.
WiFi and Bluetooth on some boxes can be a bit hit and miss and IR remotes are not as good as Bluetooth.