As with all other Android TV devices, it can also stream content from various sources using apps, and also supports 4K resolution video.

In 2017, Nvidia released a refreshed version of the 16 GB Shield, which has a smaller form factor that drops MicroSD and infrared support, comes with an updated controller, and is otherwise identical in hardware to the original model.

In 2019, Nvidia refreshed the Shield TV lineup with upgraded processors, and revised the base model with a smaller form factor and less internal storage.

[5][7][8] On January 16, 2017,[9] Nvidia announced Shield Experience Upgrade 5.0, which is based on Android 7.0 "Nougat".

It has a revised form factor with a smaller size but no microSD slot, and is supplied with Shield Experience Upgrade 5.0.

Both models use the Tegra X1+ system-on-chip, ship with Android 9.0 "Pie", support Dolby Atmos and Dolby Vision, and include an updated remote control, and a new "AI-enhanced" upscaling system that can upscale high-definition video to 4K resolution.