Shield TV Owners Warn: Avoid This Hidden Performance Killer

The Nvidia Shield TV is Consumer Reports' top-rated streaming device, but it's not without its quirks. Users can run into common problems that require patches or setting changes to fix. One such issue lies in the hidden 'Developer options' menu, which can be enabled on the Shield by clicking the Build number entry seven times under Settings > Device preferences > About.

The Developer Mode allows users to access dozens of advanced settings, including speeding up animations for a snappier feel and using ADB for customizations. However, there's one setting that nearly all Shield TV users advise against changing: 'Don't keep activities.' This toggle is located roughly three-quarters down the Developer options menu under the 'Apps' header.

Enabling this setting destroys every activity as soon as the user leaves it, preserving some RAM but causing app functionality issues. Users report that their Shield TVs run worse with this setting enabled, experiencing problems such as background apps not working and smart home commands failing to execute. As a result, users recommend against changing this setting.

For those looking to speed up their Shield TV's performance without compromising its functionality, there are alternative solutions. Removing bloatware by uninstalling unnecessary Android apps is a good place to start. Users can also install home screen replacement apps like Wolf Launcher or Projectivy Launcher, which offer customizable entertainment hubs that cut down on clutter and ads.

Home screen replacement apps are easy to install: simply download the launcher from the Shield TV's built-in app store, follow the on-screen instructions, and allow necessary permissions. However, users must be aware of accessibility settings, as some features may require customization. To default to a third-party launcher, users can open the device's main Settings menu and navigate to Device Preferences > Accessibility.