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NVIDIA Shield Tablet K1 update brings professional audio and split navigation button

Android has long had issues with audio latency that resulted in a lack of audio editing apps. To remedy this, Marshmallow introduced a professional audio requirement last year. Now, NVIDIA’s Shield Tablet K1 meets those requirements thanks to a software update currently rolling out.

The Android 6.0 Professional Audio requirements include low latency audio (defined as less than 20 millisecond continuous round trip), USB Host and Peripheral modes, 24-bit @ 192kHz stereo and 7.1 HDMI output, and MIDI support over USB and Bluetooth LE. Android’s audio situation has definitely improved since the early days and having more high-end devices might help attract pro-level apps.

This update adds the ability to choose between centered or split navigation buttons. The Shield is only the second Android tablet to receive this feature since it was introduced last December with the Pixel C. Added in a previous update, there are enhancements and fixes to the Vulkan API for high-end gaming and improvements to touch optimizations. This update also brings the tablet to the June security patch and is rolling out now. The full changelog is below:

  • SHIELD Tablet K1 now meets Android 6.0 Professional Audio requirements, including:
    • Low Latency Audio (<20ms continuous round trip)
    • USB Host & Peripheral modes
    • 24-bit@192kHz Stereo & 7.1 HDMI output
    • MIDI support over USB & Bluetooth LE
  • Option to toggle Navigation Button location (Settings > Personalize Settings)
  • Enhancements & fixes to Vulkan™ API
  • Improvements to touch responsiveness
  • Fixes to WiFi & Bluetooth connectivity
  • Update to Android 6.0 Security Patch Level June 1, 2016
  • Overall stability and additional security improvements

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Avatar for Abner Li Abner Li

Editor-in-chief. Interested in the minutiae of Google and Alphabet. Tips/talk: abner@9to5g.com