Related
I was looking for an inexpensive bluetooth keyboard, similar to this: http://www.zagg.com/accessories/zaggkeys-flex-tablet-keyboard-stand
Does anyone here use a keyboard with their tab?
i use one for note taking at university.it works great. never had a problem. I got one that says motorola on it. they all look the same to me. it takes 2 AA batteries and have lasted a long time so far. connects flawlessly every time. I got mine at staples a while back.
I use my Palm 3245WW Wireless keyboard with my A500. Works perfectly. The special Palm OS function keys and stuff don't work, but all the normal keyboard functions work fine. Haven't felt the need to buy anything different since this one that I've had for years works so well.
They're not at all inexpensive, but the FreedomPro keyboards are among the best I ever came across... They're almost full sized keyboards (combined number & F-keys are only half the normal size, as well as the modifiers + space) that fold in half for storage and transport. Also, this makes them quite robust... I do a lot of programming and stuff with mine, both with my laptop and my tab. What doesn't work is the phone keys, though, as the phone app is defunct on the Iconia Tab.
romagnus said:
i use one for note taking at university.it works great. never had a problem. I got one that says motorola on it. they all look the same to me. it takes 2 AA batteries and have lasted a long time so far. connects flawlessly every time. I got mine at staples a while back.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Perfect.. Just the post I wanted to see. I was looking at the Moto one, I bought it yesterday, glad to have my decision reinforced..
Do the buttons at the top (volume control, home button, etc) work?
--
Btw It's on sale for $30 on eBay: http://www.ebay.com/itm/230735337555?_trksid=p5197.c0.m619
I too have the Motorola Xoom keyboard, I think the volume keys work, can't remember, a few android specific buttons don't work though for whatever reason.
Speaking of bt keyboards. Anyone try ps3 one with trackpad ... curious if it works good?
Sent from my INFUSE powered by ZEUS
Ps3 keyboard works, both as a keyboard and as a trackpad. it took me a little while to figure out how to pair it, having never owned a ps3, but now it connects at the push of a button. Ps3 controller works well too, wired via built-in support and wireless via sixaxis app.
Sent from my HTC Vision using Tapatalk
When i use my keyboard .. i use:
http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=...-7S4Ag&usg=AFQjCNHAxHzUFIDSYGVDqLFUvQ1WVqlexg
ill_dawg said:
Ps3 keyboard works, both as a keyboard and as a trackpad. it took me a little while to figure out how to pair it, having never owned a ps3, but now it connects at the push of a button. Ps3 controller works well too, wired via built-in support and wireless via sixaxis app.
Sent from my HTC Vision using Tapatalk
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Ya i have ps3 controller / sixaxis. Can u pm me how you paired the keyboard. And do most the functions work?
Sent from my INFUSE powered by ZEUS
im using microsoft mobile keyboard 6000
works like a charm and i didnt need to change batteries since 6month
got it for 25euros in a local supermarket
I use the Logitech "Tablet Keyboard for Android 3.0+" (yup, that's the name) and it has a stand built into the case. Works great.
My wife has a SIIG bluetooth keyboard for her A500 and it also works fine (+ less expensive)
Keysonic 540RF Wireless
Just wanted to share that I have tested this keyboard. I normally use it for my HTPC and thought I would give it a try on this tablet. Works like a dream, the mouse pointer also shows up and most of the keys work.
I haven't had the chance to test all the keys yet.
If any keys don't work, they can be mapped. "KeyEvent Display" from the market will give you char codes, and if I remember right, the file to modify is /system/usr/keylayout/querty.kl or use logcat to find which one gets loaded. Then just add your new codes.
I use the Acer A500 bluetooth keyboard. Got it for less than 50 bucks and it works just fine.
I use THIS keyboard and I love it because it folds in half for easy transportation when I take it to school, but yet you still have the benefits of a "hard" keyboard, unlike those roll up silicone keyboards. I've got the black version.
You can pick it up used from Amazons Warhouse in "Like New" condition for about $33.
I've just order the iGo Bluetooth keyboard from Argos for £28.99 inc free delivery. I'll post a review when I get it!
LogiTech diNovo Mini
I use the Logitech diNovo Mini, works perfectly
same like me..not working
OK so out of the box this thing looks great, packaging included.
Setting it up was straight forward. HDMI to my 55" LG 240hz. Just had to dig out a spare cat5 and pop it in. Batteries in the CTRLR, dongle in the USB 2.0 port. Phone clip stashed for future use. Brought power to the MOJO and sparked it up, and just as I feared... uh.. wait.. actually it started up flawlessly, audio and video came over lovely with a beautiful smooth boot.
So far so good.
Next I used the CTRLR to perform the basic setup. TIP #1 (use mouse and keyboard for this). I didn't have an issue just took more time than it had too putting in a bunch of text via point and click. Even so, no problem to sync my google account and arrange the normal "phone" settings.
So far so good, and it doesn't even hiccup.
Apps and such, I need to navigate the new feeling of the mouse mode and android interface. TIP #2 (took a bit to understand how the left stick acts like the mouse and the A button acts like your finger pressing, so to swipe you press A then swipe stick! also when navigating screens use the right stick to scroll up and down as long as you have the curser over the section you want to scroll) I click on the MadCatz logo (claw marks), its the orientation app, follow it step by step. works like a dream, and thanks for adding that it gave me a great start. TIP #3 (follow all of the suggested actions in the slideshow). This will help you get basic apps that make the functionality of the MOJO start to feel like a workable system.
So far so good,
I want to test the sound and graphics, so I load up Dead Trigger 2 (you'll be able to DL it inside of the presentation) and man it looks sweet! I'm really impressed that this lil box can pump out those shaders and reflections at that resolution without straining.. I'm not a console FPS guy but have to say it looked great... TIP #4 (switch your CTRLR mode button from mouse mode to the right PC mode to be able to interact in Dead Trigger)
So far so good, but but but....
I want to get some apps, specifically apps that I bought the MOJO for as my media center (among other things). So you'll soon find you cannot DL most apps as the developers haven't added MOJO as a supported device, so you wont even have an option to try it out. This will not do as I am not going to wait for them to add support to get to enjoy this thing.
TIP #5 downloading and side loading apps till you can ROOT and modify the ro. to act like a supported device to fake out the app store (till they get off their ass and support this thing).
1. On your pc go to the android market and find the app you want, copy the address bar.
2. go to (im new to the forum so they wont let me show the url, but just look up APK-Downloader from evozi) paste the google play URL into the text box and click the "generate dl link" button.
3. It will save the app package as a .zip file, you will need to change the file extension from .zip to .apk and save it on a USB flash drive.
4. Pop the USB flash drive into the USB 3.0 port of your MOJO
5. Go to the security settings in the MOJO and uncheck the restriction on installing apps that are from unknown sources.
6. Open up ES File Manager app (if you followed TIP #3 this will be installed already) and find Local on the left, click that, then scroll down to USB, and click that.
7. Find the file you DL and saved as .apk and click it. It will install (everything I installed this way works perfectly, I can only speak from my experience but so far no duds, THOUGH I HAD A FAIL ON AN APP I DID NOT PURCHASE *still working on how to buy an app to gain access without being able to have that option to purchase on the market place, I think I will have to root and change my device description to a supported device but all of these steps are to avoid having to root for now*)
After this now I sit back and enjoy, I just wanted to help out anyone else that might be new to the MOJO.
So far so good, I have all the apps I bought the MOJO for and woohoo! Thanks for this MadCatz. I'm impressed. Now I just need to send some emails to the developers to update their apps.
-XexisKhan
oh and..
Almost forgot! NVIDIA TEGRAZONE has tons of compatible apps/games for this thing that look awesome, for those of you were are waiting for content to consider the MOJO... it's here!
-XexisKhan
@XexisKhan
Very helpful, thank you
gwaldo said:
@XexisKhan
Very helpful, thank you
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey my pleasure.
As I progress there are a few more things I have found.
I just purchased two keyboards to test out: (note: I would have tried out MADCATZ gamesmart stuff if they were available in store but it was an impulse decision)
I bought a HP Bluetooth keyboard K4000
Pros - only 29.99, no need for dongle with Bluetooth, super small, has power button so you can turn your MOJO off and on (never thought I would get excited about something like that but hey) and feels sturdy. Can also use the FN keys to turn off the MOJO and handle all the multimedia stuff, lovely.
Cons - Will need a mouse or separate touch pad, or will have to use the CTRLR in conjunction, not horrible but..
Also I picked up a Logitech Wireless All-In-One Keyboard tk820
Pros - It has a touch pad built in but not a ghetto one, it's real slick on the right side nice and big, stylish, heavy enough that when you have it on your lap and you use the touch pad it doesn't slide off. For most activities you wont need anything else since you can track with touch pad and type with keyboard. Can also use the FN keys to turn off the MOJO and handle all the multimedia stuff, lovely.
Cons - It is pricey at BestBuy 69.99. You will have to use up a USB slot for the dongle (Logitech unified devices). The touch pad doesn't work for the real interactive games, only the basic ones. Touch pad doesn't quit feel like you are working on the surface of a phone/screen.. would be cool.
Lastly I have plugged in several mice and all have worked well, but I tested my first straight BLUETOOTH mouse.
the Logitech Ultrathin Touch Mouse t630
Connected and functions as designed.. very slim blue tooth no dongle needed.
For ****s n gigs I plugged in my Razer Nostromo, it appears to function fine. hmm need further testing.
Turns out the CTRLR needs the dongle for MOJO but not other BLUETOOTH devices... interesting.
Gonna keep them all for a bit and test em out further. Do not see a compatibility issue with any input devices as of yet.
What's apps did u side load?
@XexisKhan thanks again
RE keyboards, did all keys map correctly?
My BT mini keyboard with mouse touch pad works for alph-numeric keys but I notice the android virtual keyboard keeps coming up and I can't use the backspace nor enter keys, strange becuase it works fine in windows and linux.
My FN keys don't turn off my mojo lol
gwaldo said:
@XexisKhan thanks again
RE keyboards, did all keys map correctly?
My BT mini keyboard with mouse touch pad works for alph-numeric keys but I notice the android virtual keyboard keeps coming up and I can't use the backspace nor enter keys, strange becuase it works fine in windows and linux.
My FN keys don't turn off my mojo lol
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
The issue there (from what I experienced) is that the on-screen keyboard is set to default. Set your BT keyboard as the default and you won't have the other pop up. As soon as you disconnect the BT, the on-screen goes back to default.
ExtremeRyno said:
The issue there (from what I experienced) is that the on-screen keyboard is set to default. Set your BT keyboard as the default and you won't have the other pop up. As soon as you disconnect the BT, the on-screen goes back to default.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the reply, I turned everything off in langauges but it still shows, not sure where to se the default keyboard.. my tablet running 4.0.4 has the same settings and does it automatically.
The keyboard mapping works just by escaping out of the virtual keyboard, so that's good enough for me
edit: @XexisKhan
Thanks, I'll look into External Keyboard Helper Pro.
XexisKhan said:
Hey my pleasure.
As I progress there are a few more things I have found.
I just purchased two keyboards to test out: (note: I would have tried out MADCATZ gamesmart stuff if they were available in store but it was an impulse decision)
I bought a HP Bluetooth keyboard K4000
Pros - only 29.99, no need for dongle with Bluetooth, super small, has power button so you can turn your MOJO off and on (never thought I would get excited about something like that but hey) and feels sturdy. Can also use the FN keys to turn off the MOJO and handle all the multimedia stuff, lovely.
Cons - Will need a mouse or separate touch pad, or will have to use the CTRLR in conjunction, not horrible but..
Also I picked up a Logitech Wireless All-In-One Keyboard tk820
Pros - It has a touch pad built in but not a ghetto one, it's real slick on the right side nice and big, stylish, heavy enough that when you have it on your lap and you use the touch pad it doesn't slide off. For most activities you wont need anything else since you can track with touch pad and type with keyboard. Can also use the FN keys to turn off the MOJO and handle all the multimedia stuff, lovely.
Cons - It is pricey at BestBuy 69.99. You will have to use up a USB slot for the dongle (Logitech unified devices). The touch pad doesn't work for the real interactive games, only the basic ones. Touch pad doesn't quit feel like you are working on the surface of a phone/screen.. would be cool.
Lastly I have plugged in several mice and all have worked well, but I tested my first straight BLUETOOTH mouse.
the Logitech Ultrathin Touch Mouse t630
Connected and functions as designed.. very slim blue tooth no dongle needed.
For ****s n gigs I plugged in my Razer Nostromo, it appears to function fine. hmm need further testing.
Turns out the CTRLR needs the dongle for MOJO but not other BLUETOOTH devices... interesting.
Gonna keep them all for a bit and test em out further. Do not see a compatibility issue with any input devices as of yet.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I am using a Logitech K270 - it seems that the mapping is not completely compatable with MOJO. I can only assume that MOJO is looking for an Android keyboard and/or driver... Am I right? Pls how is the Razor gamepad working? Does all the function keys work, can you reassign the keys ok ? ~Andy aka Two_Wolf~
PS anyone may anwser if you pls
ajelliottjr said:
I am using a Logitech K270 - it seems that the mapping is not completely compatable with MOJO. I can only assume that MOJO is looking for an Android keyboard and/or driver... Am I right? Pls how is the Razor gamepad working? Does all the function keys work, can you reassign the keys ok ? ~Andy aka Two_Wolf~
PS anyone may anwser if you pls
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Stock mojo works with BT2 (needing the USB dongle), CM12 newer BT Smart (no dongle required)
I have no idea what other gamepads use but if it's BT it will pair to mojo
I plan to buy Mojo these days, there is an offer in my country (Greece) for 89€
1. Anyone knows what's the latest official version of Mojo? I can't find anything on internet about that. Its still 4.2???
2. I will be able to run 1080p on Kodi without probs? I saw also an update that came out on June 2014 that promised 4k capabilities, is that also available?
3. Anyone knows if Football Manager 2016 Touch is supported for Mojo? It says that it run in Nvidia Shield, that i assume its the same thing, just to be sure.
I post here, as it seemed more related to start a new thread, if its not np i can start a new thread - ty in advance
Its still 4.2???
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Think so. Someone recently posted that they received word from the folks at Mad Catz stating they stopped working on the project. Never tried Kodi on it, but I know for a fact you can use 1080p.
Ended up selling my MOJO just a over month ago though. It had such a huge potential
AndroidSupaFan said:
Think so. Someone recently posted that they received word from the folks at Mad Catz stating they stopped working on the project. Never tried Kodi on it, but I know for a fact you can use 1080p.
Ended up selling my MOJO just a over month ago though. It had such a huge potential
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I have sent also a ticket to Mad Catz with the same question, i will respond back when i will have news. But in the meantime, i can't understand why people abandon this device. It plays 1080p movies and 4K (so Kodi is used at its best here), and also you take a awesome controller which can be used with games in the tv. Ok not anything spectacular (we have pc for that) but some nice games at least. Also you take a traveler clip where you can have your smartphone on the controller and the specs of mojo itself, if there is a capable rom creator, let you have new version of Android in the future easily.
Its very sad that i see that very few people are using the device and making roms. I bought it for 70 euro and i believe its better than most rk media players out there.
Hi does it run apps like 4od I player itvplayer demand five amazon video etc? Because some apps will be available to download but won't work with the controller. Can you plug a mouse and keyboard in to play the games that don't work on the controller?
iMarcs said:
Hi does it run apps like 4od I player itvplayer demand five amazon video etc? Because some apps will be available to download but won't work with the controller. Can you plug a mouse and keyboard in to play the games that don't work on the controller?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Hey, you can plug a mouse but with the controller itself it has an integrated mouse "mode" that behave like a mouse so it's not so needed. If you please tell me exact what apps you are looking for, and i will test them later today to report back.
---------- Post added at 10:23 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:22 AM ----------
For me, the main problem is that 4.2.2 doesn't have so much compatibility with the apps in playstore. (even if i manage to spoof the device). It would be nice to have at least Lollipop
iMarcs said:
Hi does it run apps like 4od I player itvplayer demand five amazon video etc? Because some apps will be available to download but won't work with the controller. Can you plug a mouse and keyboard in to play the games that don't work on the controller?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Nah, it doesn't support Amazon video, primary reason why I sold it.
Well, rumors first spread Mad Catz was bringing new update and support Android TV.... As of now, nothing!
The controller is great, hardware is great, no doubt about it. But the lack of future official updates makes it another unused sitting console next to the TV. If something happens, I will probably buy it again (and I made a profit selling it though!).
lanc3lot said:
Hey, you can plug a mouse but with the controller itself it has an integrated mouse "mode" that behave like a mouse so it's not so needed. If you please tell me exact what apps you are looking for, and i will test them later today to report back.
---------- Post added at 10:23 AM ---------- Previous post was at 10:22 AM ----------
For me, the main problem is that 4.2.2 doesn't have so much compatibility with the apps in playstore. (even if i manage to spoof the device). It would be nice to have at least Lollipop
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thabks for your help. I'm looking to get all the media streaming apps, 8ball multiplayer and call if duty zombies ect
Netflix works, as Cod Zombies
Mouse mode too!
This is awesome! I had read that the FireTV worked with some Logitech keyboards. I had a Logitech mini keyboard that I originally bought to use with my Logitech Revue. The mini keyboard is really sweet with a small touch pad that works in mouse mode. The post stating that a Logitech diNovo keyboard worked said that the mouse didn't. This initially lead me to believe that my mini keyboard was the one referred to here, but I now think not.
Anyhow, I tried and tried to get it paired via BT. I even side-loaded the standard Settings app and tried pairing it that way, but no dice. Tonight, I wondered if I could get it to work with my Mac. It came with a "Unifying" dongle that I had tried plugging into the FireTV with no success. I downloaded the Unifying software for my Mac and plugged the dongle in. It mentioned something about pairing (don't remember what exactly), so I paired my mini keyboard and was happy to see both the keyboard and mouse portion working just fine. Then I wondered to myself "Gee… I wonder if it’s linked to this dongle now, and will it work if I plug it into my FireTV"... So, I moved the dongle to my FireTV and was shocked! Right away, the arrows worked, and when I put it in mouse mode and touched the pad, I had a circle on the screen following my finger movement! And the Home button on it takes you back to the Home screen, like it was made for FireTV!
This really opens up using the many apps out there that are written with only for touch interfaces! I was able to navigate Xfinity TV Go from across the room using only this mini keyboard... At the moment, you can still get these through Amazon for $49.99 (though I'm new here and can't link to it - Search for "Logitech Mini Controller for Logitech Revue and Google TV" if you want one).
Taige said:
Mouse mode too!
This is awesome! I had read that the FireTV worked with some Logitech keyboards. I had a Logitech mini keyboard that I originally bought to use with my Logitech Revue. The mini keyboard is really sweet with a small touch pad that works in mouse mode. The post stating that a Logitech diNovo keyboard worked said that the mouse didn't. This initially lead me to believe that my mini keyboard was the one referred to here, but I now think not.
Anyhow, I tried and tried to get it paired via BT. I even side-loaded the standard Settings app and tried pairing it that way, but no dice. Tonight, I wondered if I could get it to work with my Mac. It came with a "Unifying" dongle that I had tried plugging into the FireTV with no success. I downloaded the Unifying software for my Mac and plugged the dongle in. It mentioned something about pairing (don't remember what exactly), so I paired my mini keyboard and was happy to see both the keyboard and mouse portion working just fine. Then I wondered to myself "Gee… I wonder if it’s linked to this dongle now, and will it work if I plug it into my FireTV"... So, I moved the dongle to my FireTV and was shocked! Right away, the arrows worked, and when I put it in mouse mode and touched the pad, I had a circle on the screen following my finger movement! And the Home button on it takes you back to the Home screen, like it was made for FireTV!
This really opens up using the many apps out there that are written with only for touch interfaces! I was able to navigate Xfinity TV Go from across the room using only this mini keyboard... At the moment, you can still get these through Amazon for $49.99 (though I'm new here and can't link to it - Search for "Logitech Mini Controller for Logitech Revue and Google TV" if you want one).
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
how does the keyboard function within xbmc?
I use a logitech k360 wireless keyboard with my ftv and it works great, also flawless with xbmc.
I'm not a big XBMC user, but it has worked fine when I've used it. Played a show on it last night and when I hit the button marked with the stop icon, (when the menu was overlaid on the video), and the video stopped...
So far, I've mostly used it for apps that are built for touch screen (like Xfinity's TV app).
I just started using the K400R. So far everything seems to be great. I have not tried the multimedia keys yet though. The mouse/touchpad works great as well.
jamboss said:
I use a logitech k360 wireless keyboard with my ftv and it works great, also flawless with xbmc.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I've the same MK360 combo but am unable to get a USB connection since the FTC OS was changed a few weeks ago. Are you still getting a connection? I'm not sure what really changed from limited connectivity to zero. Thanks for ideas ....
I know your post is 3 years old, but I'm wondering if you were able to "click" using the trackpad or mouse key on the TV730 with your Mac. I can pair mine, and typing as well as some other keys work, but I'm not able to click to choose anything.
Nexus Player is a sad/simple/boring device. Its remote is really silly and useless. Anyone who have used an Air mouse type remote (Lg Magic Remote or Samsun's one) knows how comfortable it is to have a pointer on the screen and move the hand to reach the cursor where you need. Google decided to use a simply remove which basically is a left/right/left/left/down/down/down until you reach your option.
I've bought a USB OTG cable and connected my mouse. While the cursor is moving on the screen and it works on some apps, in most it does work. So for instance, on a game I can't click on the buttons... Is there a way to make the mouse clicks on all apps ?
Also, some apps which are forced for portrait orientation, will be displayed lying as the tv is 1920x1080. Any way to force the orientation of apks ?
Thanks.
I've had this problem too. Apparently some developers code in touches and/or mouse clicks, and some only code in the touch command. That is why some games aren't working for you.
You've got two options, either complain to the development team to add mouse clicks (which I'm told should be an easy thing to do) or use the DroidMote app by Zulu.
Thank you @midnightzak for making it clear to me. It seems that even the games from the Google Play for android TV are not working as supposed. For instance I installed Minion Rush (which is officially supported) and after it installed on start, it ask me to enter my age but I can't enter it because when moving around with remove for the Age editbox and clicking ok button does nothing, no keyboard popup. Tried it with controller too, same thing.
Another short question. On Chromecast on my LG smart TV I had Simplink enabled. Not sure if because of this, but when I started to cast a video from my phone, the tv switches from cable input to chromecast input. This does not work for Nexus Player, I need to manually switch input to HDMI port of the player. Is this normal ?
I have a magic motion remote for my LG tv, which is basically an air mouse remote. LG firmware has an option to control other devices connected through HDMI with the remote and when I try to add a new device, I get all sorts of Box sets from different producers. I was wondering if there is a way to make the remote work on nexus player.
The nexus player doesn't officially support HDMI CEC which is the protocol required for the auto switching of inputs to work. It's also what would make your remote work unfortunately.
I have a LG "smart" TV as well and at first the Nexus Player did not appear to support the expected HDMI-CEC functionality (input switching and magic remote passthrough). On LG "smart" TVs, you have to re-enable HDMI-CEC for that port when you switch devices. This is also sometimes a very annoying setting to find if you haven't touched it in a while.
@opticron so you say that you LG TV does work with Nexus player and also you can use the magic remote for it ? Can you tell me some more details on how to enable the HDMI-CEC on the tv for the player HDMI port ?
My other concern: should the cable be of any special type to support CEC ?
Later edit: I have replaced the HDMI cable I had with an newer cheap one. The older one did not work with simplink enabled, while the new one does. I can use the lg remote to navigate around the nexus player. The cursor does not trigger any action (too bad) but up/down/left/right/ok/back works from the magic remote.
WORK IN PROGRESS: UPDATING
STOP PRESS: FIRESTARTER 3.0 RELEASED. SANITY RESTORED.
http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/themes-apps/app-root-home-launcher-replacement-app-t3118135
Before sending your Fire TV/Stick back to Amazon in disgust, beware of its limitations, and try these tips.
Bottom line is it's going to be a solid step up from Fire TV 1. But right now, it has a few issues.
Let's talk about the elephant in the room: the angry reviews. Almost all the complaints are about the glitchy remote (we have a fix), battery cover (sometimes the customer isn't always right), audio issues (Amazon is patching, stay tuned). No question, it's got some bugs out of the gate, but Amazon has responded and hopefully all will be resolved shortly . Enjoy:
http://www.amazon.com/Amazon-DV83YW-Fire-TV/product-reviews/B00U3FPN4U/
Fire TV 2: hardware shortcomings by design that many regard as substandard.
If these are important, you might need to look elsewhere.
1. USB 2.0 not even USB 3.0. USB-C is the new standard appearing on phones and laptops.
2. Ethernet 10/100 not GB.
3. No optical port. Possible solution: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B010JQMHNW/?
4. HDMI 1.4, not HDMI 2.0, limited to 4K at 30fps.
Software bugs and annoyances, most probably due to OS 5, but yet to be confirmed.
Could be fixed either by Amazon or developers.
1. Audio limited to stereo other than for Amazon Prime. Quiet audio.
As promised, Amazon has released a patch (extremely quickly):
“By this coming Monday, October 12th, you will receive an automatic software update that enables Dolby Digital Plus for customers who have a Dolby Digital Plus system (including support for Netflix and Amazon Video). An update for older Dolby Digital systems (not Dolby Digital Plus) will be distributed on November 30th.” -Amazon
Update from AFTVNews:
One of the new device’s largest complaints, a lack of Dolby Digital surround sound support, which has been partially fixed already, stems from changes made to support Netflix. I’m told by my source at Amazon that Netflix gave the Fire TV engineering team a new version of their software at the last minute which required changes to the Fire TV’s software to work correctly. Those changes conflicted with Dolby Digital surround sound support. With not enough time to fix support for both, Amazon was faced with the decision to ship without Netflix or without Dolby Digital surround sound. They chose the latter which, in my opinion, was the right choice.
http://www.aftvnews.com/amazon-is-d...-internal-testing-pool-for-bug-fixing-effort/
2. Fire TV 2 WiFi Remote drops out, glitchy, lags, etc.
Do this when setting up if you're connecting via Ethernet: disconnect your LAN cable, connect to WiFi, reconnect your network cable.
And then do this anytime if your remote becomes laggy: disconnect Ethernet cable, reconnect Ethernet cable.
That should fix it. Really, it's usually that simple.
If not, there could be interference, you could try changing channels or frequency on your router or restrict the available protocols (just N or AC, for example). Let us know if you're still having problems.
3. Highly inconvenient to launch Kodi and other sideloaded apps.
Long story, somewhat shortened: The Fire OS only shows icons for apps obtained from Amazon's App Store. That, unfortunately, doesn't include Kodi, everyone's favourite media player, and about 99% of the reason the AFTV has a cult following. There have been two popular ways to get around Amazon's belligerence: by having Kodi launch as proxy of another app (usually Ikono TV) using Llama; or by employing Firestarter to bind it to the Home button.
Both can be loaded via ADFire.
Unfortunately, Llama no longer works (for this purpose) in OS5/AFTV2, so skip that route and install FireStarter:
ADBFire : http://forum.xda-developers.com/showthread.php?t=2786505
FireStarter http://forum.xda-developers.com/fire-tv/themes-apps/app-root-home-launcher-replacement-app-t3118135
Kodi: http://kodi.tv
I recommend mapping the Home Button single click to Kodi, and the Home button double-click to Amazon Home. Or if you'd prefer to use Firestarter as your home screen, then map it to the double-click. The added bonus to this setup is every time you're in Kodi and hit the Home button inadvertently, instead of losing your **** yet again, it'll just flash in and out of the app and then pause whatever you're watching.
Here's a guide on sideloading to the Fire. Again, I strongly recommend ADBFire:
http://www.aftvnews.com/sideload/
If you have an Android tablet or phone, there are several apps that can push apps across to the Fire, such as Apps2Fire. That way you can download your apps direct from the official Google Play Store. Don't forget they won't automatically update. You'll need to push those updates across as well.
4. Can't connect via ADB to sideload using ADBFire etc since using FireStarter
First up: make sure you have ADB enabled. Settings>System>Developer Options> Both ADB Debugging and Apps from Unknown Sources need to be On.
FireStarter has two methods of intercepting Home button presses: one using ADB, and one not using ADB. The issue that's arisen since the introduction of Fire OS 5 is that the operating system no longer permits parallel ADB connections, so if FireStarter is using it to intercept Home button presses, you won't be able to connect to the Fire TV using ADB, and thus you won't be able to sideload apps and files using ADBFire.
We now have two options:
Option 1 (Firestarter won't use ADB): Open FireStarter, under Settings, uncheck "Home Detection via ADB."
Advantage: You only need ADB enabled to connect with ADBFire. No need to touch FireStarter.
Disadvantage: Only detects your customized Home button choices within the Fire TV's home screen, and not within apps. Pressing Home within Kodi, for example, will return you to the Home screen. Pressing it again will send you back to Kodi (or whatever action you've chosen. A potential advantage is this now gives you three variants of the Home button: a single and double-click from the Home screen; and the traditional Fire TV Home shortcut from within any app.
Option 2: (FireStarter uses ADB): Open FireStarter, check "Home Detection via ADB"
Advantage: FireStarter will now obey your Home button choices (single and double-click) from anywhere.
Disadvantage: You will either need to kill FireStarter (see below) or temporarily revert to Option 1 in order to do your ADB stuff. Note: there's now a handy shortcut direct to the ADB Debugging toggle within FireStarter.
Tip: If you go with Option 2, you can quickly kill FireStarter's grip on ADB by going: Settings>Manage Applications>FireStarter and Force Stop. And then restarting FireStarter or the Device once you've finished your ADB business.
5. External storage limited to disks formatted in FAT32.
There's no reason why Amazon couldn't enable other formats, but there's little incentive to bother. Even Macs don't support NTFS out of the box. Either format your drives in FAT32 (and split larger files if necessary) or move them to a network share. Not hard to work around. Here's a tip:
http://www.aftvnews.com/how-to-play...b-off-the-fire-tvs-fat32-usb-storage-in-kodi/
6. Difficult to remove battery cover?
No it's not. Slide it back then lift it up. Dead easy:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R3t1GOCzjzY&
7. Can't move Kodi to external storage.
http://www.aftvnews.com/some-apps-like-kodi-cannot-write-to-external-storage-yet-on-fire-os-5/
Upgrade to Jarvis (still in alpha but perfectly acceptable).
8. LED only glowing when it detects a remote button press
Either a bug or a new way of doing things. Either way, it's not ideal.
9. Can't Chromecast from Android device to Fire TV
Yes, you can cast from Youtube, but nothing else (that I can find). Blame Google for that:
http://www.aftvnews.com/google-has-chromecast-receiver-app-pulled-from-fire-tv-appstore/
You can, however, Airplay to it. Via Kodi is one method, that usually works, but can be flaky sometimes. There are a bunch of apps you can try. Some work better than others. I picked up this one when it was free, it works:
http://www.amazon.co.uk/x9F99-x65B9-x513F-AirReceiver/dp/B00L5HQRGS/
And for those of you with other Amazon devices, there's always Fling:
https://developer.amazon.com/public...g/docs/understanding-the-amazon-fling-service
How about Bluetooth controller frequently loses connection to the AFTV? Mine drops it's connection probably 2 or 3 times every hour.
sudman said:
How about Bluetooth controller frequently loses connection to the AFTV? Mine drops it's connection probably 2 or 3 times every hour.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Isn't the AFTV2 remote Wi-Fi?
I will be watching this thread closely. Thank you for posting.
Sent from my HTC One_M8 using XDA Free mobile app
list additions
I would add to the list:
Issues with day 1 software update, (several resets, issues to get working)
Wifi remote constantly cuts on/off (taking out batteries seems like temp fix)
Stutters in apps like WatchESPN
Second the dropping of lama/kodi icon support
Despite better hardware, little change in actual performance (yet to be fully seen)
Claude Koch said:
Isn't the AFTV2 remote Wi-Fi?
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
I was under the impression that it was BT same as the original but cant find a definitive answer eitherway. Eitherway the damn thing keeps discontecting!!!! Will be sending mine back if things dont improve fast.
sudman said:
I was under the impression that it was BT same as the original but cant find a definitive answer eitherway. Eitherway the damn thing keeps discontecting!!!! Will be sending mine back if things dont improve fast.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
http://www.aftvnews.com/list-of-all-fire-tv-and-fire-tv-stick-remote-and-game-controller-specs/
Claude Koch said:
About time we compiled a tally of what's broken, missing or just plain annoying on the new Fire TV, and what's (about to be) broken by the official release of OS 5 on the old Fire TV.
4. More to come.....
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for this. I was criticized elsewhere for bringing up some shortcomings of 2. I am very interested in the gizmo you linked that breaks off the 5.1 via Optical and 2ch mini-jack from the HDMI stream. The product dates back to 2013 which makes me skeptical. I've bought a few of these that did not work. I have 4 port Monoprice HDMI switch that has the 5.1 and 2ch breakout. It disappoints as it is 5.1 OR 2ch, not both. The one's I have had tried similar to your post would pass sound to all six speakers but it was in reality Stereo which will fool some people. The clue for me is, does the blue Dolby light come on? A quick test for DD Plus handling is "House of Cards". If you get a blue light viewing that, it's good to go. It's been almost a year since I last fooled with them so maybe there is something that is NEW and works.
I am still looking for one that really works. The only thing I know that splits off 5.1, for real, is 1's Optical connector.
What's funny is that I pitched my Roku3 over the DD+ impasse. Now Roku4 is coming out and it HAS an optical connector.
I have an Echo/Alexa too and waiting to see how all that works out with my 1 if it does at all. I'm rooted so unless Rbox comes through, I'm out of luck. Right now my Echo is pretty much a party novelty but it can now control my Nest and Insteon devices. Just found the most useful feature is using it as a meat timer.
It's a shame 2 isn't all of 1 but better and more.
I had problems with the connection with my remote too.
Are you used ethernet at the first start to connect with your router? Never set up wifi connection?
Try this
1. disconnect fire tv from ethernet
2. connect fire tv to wifi
3. reconnect the remote to fire tv
4. connect fire tv to ethernet again
for me i think it works... I am not 100% sure because the connection lost was very rare before. but give it a try.. :laugh:
There are huge issues with the WiFi the gain on the 5GHz 802.11ac is terrible in addition to issues above. I sent two of them back. Returning all of them is the only way Amazon will fix this!
I hate to say it, but it's looking like a lemon.
Edit: things are looking much better today.
What is an "Accessory Port". On my 1 I use a little dongle called Flirc to allow my Logitech Harmony One unified remote to control it. Needed it to feed the "Menu" command to 1. I now have a Harmony Ultimate with Hub and just imported the same settings.
I wonder if 2's "Accessory port" will allow a Flirc dongle to support unified IR remotes. Also wonder if it is even necessary with the 2. The Ultimate remote is still totally IR but the Hub is WiFi allowing it to talk to some smart devices. Guess I could test but hate to fix something that ain't broke. That's the main reason I'm afraid of 2. See no benefit except for 4K and I don't have that. My 1 setup works pretty well.
What I want to do is ditch my $160/mo DirecTV bill and replace it with another DVR option. SBC (aka AT&T) ate them and nothing good will come from that. "Repeating" myself, the Tivo Bolt is intriguing. Would replace FireTV and DirecTV. On the other hand, my rooted 1 with Nova Launcher and a Logitech K400 KB is a pretty nice little big screen Android box.
Nothing is just right.
sudman said:
How about Bluetooth controller frequently loses connection to the AFTV? Mine drops it's connection probably 2 or 3 times every hour.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
It's an abomination. Seems like the wifi keeps dropping out.
Edit: fixed.
Claude Koch said:
It's an abomination. Seems like the wifi keeps dropping out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
But it's ON SALE. hurry while the supply lasts. Pulling 2 1/2 Stars. Not good.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00U3FPN4U/?tag=aftvndeal-20
The Main Reason AFTV 2 Is Not For Me
Root and Nova Launcher
Claude Koch said:
It's an abomination. Seems like the wifi keeps dropping out.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
A page back i posted a method to fix that if you are used ethernet cable at the first start o AFTV2.
Try this
1. disconnect fire tv from ethernet
2. connect fire tv to wifi
3. reconnect the remote to fire tv
4. connect fire tv to ethernet again
For me no connection losts between remote control and AFTV2 after a couple of hours.
I know the Apple TV was looming, but I don't get why Amazon felt the need to rush this out so fast. There just really isn't a reason to refresh a video streaming device annually. I understand they wanted to beat Apple to 4K, but looks like it cost them this time. I am sure updates will make it better, but this box might be the dud when we look back and the history of these things. I just hope it doesn't flop so bad they stop future revisions.
MajorWinters said:
A page back i posted a method to fix that if you are used ethernet cable at the first start o AFTV2.
Try this
1. disconnect fire tv from ethernet
2. connect fire tv to wifi
3. reconnect the remote to fire tv
4. connect fire tv to ethernet again
For me no connection losts between remote control and AFTV2 after a couple of hours.
Click to expand...
Click to collapse
Thanks for the tip. I'm going to let it be for a couple of days, then try your fix. Otherwise, I won't know it it helped.
Been trying to get it to detect the bluetooth remote from my other Fire TV but not having any luck.
EDIT: Great tip, seems to have done the trick! Added to list.
I sent mine back. I can't believe that the newer Fire TV performs much worse than my 1st Gen Fire TV. Here is what I find annoying.
Remote cover is very hard to open. Broke my nail and it took me nearly a half hour to get it open. Once it is open it is much easier after.
Remote freezes and stops responding. Have to take out batteries and put them back in. At first I though the unit froze but my BT keyboard works fine. Had to use that quite often.
Netflix no 5.1 surround sound. Also it takes much longer to get up to 1080p. On my old Fire TV 1080p instantly and if not just restart the stream. On the 2nd gen Fire TV mud quality sub 480p which can take up to 40 seconds or longer to get to 1080p unless I fast forward and rewind the stream but then it ends up ruining what I am watching when there are spoilers in the beginning of the program.
Other third party apps actually run worse. They stutter and skip frames like trying to watch a HD video on a Celeron PC from 2008.
The external storage option is a joke. First thing is they should have included more than 8gb of internal storage because the external microSD is useless. I moved all the apps and games I can to the external storage however most apps and some games still store at least half the data on internal storage so even then I was already running low on space while my 64gb microSD barely used any space.
Box runs much warmer than before and I have it on a cooling pad.
To me the picture quality seems worse. I don't have a 4k TV just 1080p but the picture is much darker and reds look more pixelated.
That is what I can think of off the bat but in the end I ended up sending it back like many others and I see a recall soon from Amazon. They should have never released this thing as the 1st Gen Fire TV was pretty much perfect. Yes it had issues when it first came out mainly the once outdated Netflix app and having to occasionally clear the Amazon video data app when it would not play but otherwise it performed much better than this new thing does.
It's looking like under OS5, external storage is sandboxed as read-only to Kodi. The same seems true of Android TV (Nvidia Shield), so I suppose it's a Lollipop security issue. If I'm right, this means no moving Kodi data/thumbnails to external storage and using the /sdcard/xbmc_env.properties to redirect. Can anyone confirm/disprove this?