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NVIDIA announced SHIELD Experience Upgrade 5.0 for both the original SHIELD Tablet and the SHIELD Tablet K1 on February 9, 2017. The upgrade was based on Android 7.0 Nougat, adding split-screen multitasking, notification changes, customizable Quick Settings and support updates for the 2017 SHIELD Controller. It was a historical rollout, not a current update offer.
What NVIDIA released
SHIELD Experience Upgrade 5.0 was NVIDIA’s name for the software release; it did not mean Android 5.0. The Android version underneath was 7.0 Nougat, not Android 7.1. NVIDIA named both the original SHIELD Tablet and the SHIELD Tablet K1 in its February 9, 2017 announcement, so the release was not limited to the K1. Contemporaneous coverage of the announcement reported that distribution was beginning, but does not establish that every device received it at the same time.
What changed for tablet owners
Split-screen and faster app switching
Nougat added split-screen mode, letting two supported apps appear side by side in portrait or landscape orientation. Whether a particular app worked in split-screen depended on that app’s compatibility. The update also supported quick switching: double-tapping Overview returned to the previous app.
More useful notifications
Notifications from the same app could be grouped, and apps that supported it could offer direct replies in the notification shade. Pressing and holding a notification provided controls to silence or block notifications from that app.
#1 Best Overall
- , 8 inches Display
- NVIDIA Tegra 2.2 GHz
- 16 GB Flash Memory, 2 GB RAM Memory
- 0.78 pounds
Doze while moving
NVIDIA listed “Doze on the Go,” extending Android’s Doze power-management behavior to situations where the tablet was being carried rather than left stationary. That feature is not evidence of a particular or guaranteed battery-life improvement.
Quick Settings and display controls
- Quick Settings tiles could be edited directly, and the panel could be opened from the lock screen with a downward swipe.
- Display size and font size could be adjusted independently.
- Settings gained a navigation menu and suggestions.
- “Clear all” moved to the upper-right area of Overview.
Data Saver and system updates
Data Saver could restrict background apps’ access to cellular data, a feature especially relevant to cellular-equipped models. The release also included Unicode 9 emoji and a new JIT compiler that NVIDIA described as speeding up app and system updates.
Rank #2
- The official controller for SHIELD TV, SHIELD Tablet, and GeForce-equipped PCs.
- Redesigned from the ground up for precision gaming.
- Dual vibration feedback.
- Stereo headphone jack for private audio.
- Hands-free mic for smart home control.
Controller and SHIELD ecosystem additions
The release added or updated support for the 2017 SHIELD Controller; the announcement does not indicate that the controller was required for the tablet update or included with it. NVIDIA also introduced SHIELD Rewards, describing product and app news, rewards, discounts and possible free games. That was a launch feature of the period, not a promise that the program remains available.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What the update means for owners now
Security level was already dated
The release notes cited in contemporaneous coverage listed an Android security patch level of December 1, 2016. That is a historical detail about the 2017 release, not evidence of current security maintenance or a current security guarantee.
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Rank #3
- 💡 [Backlit] BoxWave Keyboard Compatible With Nvidia Shield Tablet K1. Features an integrated LED backlight that illuminates your keys, making it easy to type in low-light or dark settings. 💬 Includes limited 3rd party tech support for your device (up to 3 inquiries via messaging) - not affiliated with or endorsed by Nvidia ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, NVIDIA SHIELD TABLET K1 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
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Nougat was the last major Android version, according to later reporting
Later coverage reported that NVIDIA would not update either tablet to Android Oreo. On that account, Nougat was the final major Android-version upgrade for these models; this does not establish whether any later maintenance firmware existed. Later SHIELD Tablet coverage provides that Oreo context, separate from the original 2017 announcement.
Checking an older tablet
- Open Settings and look for the system-update area.
- Check for an available SHIELD Experience update. Menu wording may differ by software revision.
- Back up important data and charge the tablet before installing an update.
- If no update appears, that alone does not show the tablet is defective. Current availability from NVIDIA’s update service is not established.
The exact build number, package size, rollout schedule by region or variant, and present download availability are not established by the cited announcement. The original Tablet and K1 are separate models, so do not install firmware for one on the other. A manual flash also carries model/build mismatch and data-loss risks; an old Nougat release by itself is not enough to judge whether either tablet suits a current buyer’s security or app-compatibility needs.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 👀 [PRIVACY] BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible With Nvidia Shield Tablet K1. Changes properties depending on the angle of view! View the screen straight on, and the ClearTouch lets your brilliant screen shine through. If someone peeks at your screen from the side, it AUTOMATICALLY OBSTRUCTS their view from 25 degrees and beyond, ensuring your privacy! ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, SHIELD TABLET K1 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
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- 🍷[CRYSTAL CLEAR] Provides a GLOSSY SURFACE that is nice to the touch, and provides 99% visibility without blurring or distorting your screen.
Rank #4
- 💪 [TOUGH AND FLEXIBLE] BoxWave Screen Protector Compatible With Nvidia Shield Tablet K1. With a hardness rating of 9H, the ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield has the STRONGEST possible rating to protect the screen on your precious device. Just as strong as glass but without the possibility of chipping and cracking. ⭐ *** PLEASE NOTE, SHIELD TABLET K1 DEVICE NOT INCLUDED ***
- 🌞 [ANTI-GLARE] This award-winning screen protector disperses light so that the glare does not reflect back into your eyes. Whether you're using the device outdoors with natural lighting, or viewing indoors with overhead lights, the ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield 9H REDUCES 90% of UV rays caused by reflected light, protecting your eyes.
- 😎 [SMOOTH SURFACE] Ultra smooth matte surface gives you a FUTURISTIC high-end look and feel to your device screen. Has a paper-like surface that is comfortable to the touch, and pleasing to the eye!
- 👔 [PERFECT DESIGN] Specifically designed for your device. These ClearTouches will fit your device screen perfectly, GUARANTEED! All ClearTouches are PRECISION-CUT to fit your device screen's exact dimensions along with any contours and cut-outs. All functionality will be fully accessible.
- ✌ [TWO-PACK] Comes with TWO (2) ClearTouch Anti-Glare ToughShield 9H screen protectors and installation accessories. Save the extra one for later, or share it with a friend! Disclaimer: ClearTouch Packaging may not be the exact one pictured on this listing.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
