Second Opinion

Second Opinion is a reviews show about anything and everything under the sun. If we can experience it, we can review it.

Nexus Player Post-Mortem

Episode #26 ▪ The Fringe #434

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The Nexus Player is no longer being made or sold, but it provides some valuable insights into how the Android TV ecosystem is doing and what to look for in a set-top box. Join Ian and Ryan to hear about their experiences with it.

Pros

  • Google Cast built in
  • Hockey puck look isn't bad - nice and low-profile
  • Remote
    • Good for old people who can't understand casting
    • Bluetooth doesn't need line-of-sight
  • Can install apps/games from Google Play or APKs
  • When you start casting, it can command your TV to turn on and switch input to Nexus Player
  • Photo slideshow it shows as a screensaver is quite pleasant

Cons

  • Not well supported in the Googleverse anymore
    • Google Home cannot cast Netflix to it, even though it can do that to Chromecast
  • Setup involves typing in passwords with an on-screen keyboard controlled by the remote
  • Voice recognition in the remote isn't great
  • Not all streaming platforms are supported (read: Amazon Video)

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