In the world of technology, where innovation marches forward at an astonishing pace, products can quickly transform from cutting-edge to relics of the past. The MINIX NEO U9-H, an Android TV box that debuted in the early months of 2017, embodies this shifting landscape. Despite the passage of time and the emergence of newer models, the NEO U9-H continues to linger in the market, raising the question of whether it still has relevance in today’s rapidly evolving media streaming ecosystem.
Once hailed as a flagship device, the MINIX U9-H held the promise of cutting-edge capabilities and seamless media streaming. However, as technology charges ahead, the NEO U9-H’s hardware and software have remained unchanged, potentially causing it to lag in a landscape driven by constant innovation. In this assessment, we aim to determine whether the NEO U9-H still possesses the allure and functionality to captivate users within a realm of ever-evolving entertainment technology.
MINIX NEO U9-H: Price and Availability
The MINIX NEO U9-H is currently available for purchase from a variety of online retailers, including:
- Amazon: $149.99
- MINIX Official Store: $149.99
- AliExpress: $129.99
- GearBest: $139.99
The price may vary depending on the retailer and the shipping location. The U9-H is also available in some physical retailers, such as Best Buy and Fry’s Electronics. The availability of the U9-H media player may vary depending on the retailer. It is a good idea to check the availability before making a purchase.
MINIX NEO U9-H: Design Layout
The design of the U9-H media player is characterized by a sleek and modern aesthetic. This smart streaming device has an intuitive yet attractive design, with a matte-black finish and rounded corners. Its small dimensions of 4.9″ x 4.9″ x 0.9″ allow it to readily fit into various entertainment settings without taking up too much space. The device’s form lends itself nicely to integration into a variety of household contents while remaining clean and inconspicuous.
MINIX NEO U9-H: User-Friendly Interface
The interface of the MINIX NEO U9-H is built around a user-friendly Metro launcher. This interface is thoughtfully designed to cater to TV viewing from a distance. It features recognizable icons and employs large fonts, ensuring convenient navigation even when seated far from the screen. This layout optimizes the user experience by making it easy to identify and access different applications and functions.
Navigating the interface is intuitive, and users can customize the layout according to their preferences. The Metro launcher facilitates easy organization of apps and shortcuts, allowing users to personalize their home screen. Whether you’re adjusting settings, arranging icons, or accessing various media formats and streaming services, the interface of the MINIX media player is crafted to provide a seamless and enjoyable entertainment journey.
Smart Features of the MINIX NEO U9-H
In an era dominated by smart devices and interconnectedness, the MINIX NEO U9-H aimed to carve a niche for itself as an intelligent media streaming solution. Equipped with Android capabilities, this device was designed to transform ordinary televisions into smart entertainment hubs. While it once stood as a beacon of innovation, let’s delve into the smart features it offered and examine how they fare against today’s standards.
Media Streaming Powerhouse
The NEO U9-H emerged with the promise to elevate the media streaming experience. Its ability to broadcast material from popular platforms such as Amazon Prime Video and Netflix smoothly aims to bridge the gap between traditional television and new streaming services. Users could watch a wide range of movies, TV series, and documentaries at the press of a button, essentially altering how people devoured entertainment.
Android Compatibility
Running on the Android operating system, the NEO U9-H sought to leverage the familiarity and flexibility that Android offers. Users could access the Google Play Store to download apps, games, and utilities, effectively transforming their television into a multifunctional device. This integration of Android opened doors to an expansive ecosystem of possibilities, allowing users to tailor their entertainment experience to their preferences.
Stunning 4K HDR Visuals
With its support for 4K High Dynamic Range (HDR) video, the NEO U9-H aimed to redefine visual quality. The integration of 4K resolution brought forth an astonishing level of detail, making every scene come alive with precision. HDR technology further enhanced the experience by expanding the color and contrast range, resulting in lifelike visuals. Whether users were diving into the vivid landscapes of a nature documentary or exploring the intricate details of a blockbuster movie, the NEO U9-H’s 4K HDR capabilities aimed to deliver a breathtaking visual feast.
Dolby Atmos Audio Capabilities
To improve the auditory experience, the NEO U9-H includes Dolby Atmos audio support. Dolby Atmos sought to create a more immersive and realistic sound environment by accurately placing and moving sound components in a three-dimensional space. This technology enabled users to hear sounds originating from different directions, providing depth and realism to the audio experience, whether it was a faint whisper or a tremendous explosion. It sought to enhance the device’s visual capabilities by offering an enthralling and lifelike audio experience.
User-Friendly Interface
Navigating through the smart features of the NEO U9-H was made intuitive with its user-friendly interface. The device’s user interface aimed to bridge the gap between traditional remote control operation and modern touchscreen convenience. With icons and menus optimized for TV viewing, users could effortlessly browse content, launch apps, and adjust settings without feeling overwhelmed.
Seamless Connectivity
The smart features of the NEO U9-H extended beyond content consumption. With multiple connectivity options, including USB ports, HDMI outputs, and Ethernet connections, the device facilitated a hassle-free integration of other peripherals. This allowed users to expand their entertainment horizons by connecting external storage devices, and gaming controllers, and even turning the TV into a hub for video conferencing.
Firmware Updates & Support
One of the standout smart features was the commitment to firmware updates and community support. While the NEO U9-H’s hardware remained fixed, its software received periodic updates that enhanced functionality and addressed potential issues. The active community of users contributed to unofficial firmware updates, extending the device’s lifespan and adaptability beyond the manufacturer’s support.
MINIX NEO U9-H: Setup Process
Here is the complete setup procedure for this media streaming device. Follow these instructions to install this smart device in the home entertainment hub.
- 1. Begin by Connecting the HDMI cable to your TV and the NEO U9-H’s HDMI port.
- 2. Turn on the TV and plug in the power adapter to the NEO U9-H.
- 3. After connecting the power adapter, the MINIX NEO U9-H will boot up.
- 4. Follow the on-screen instructions to select your preferred language and other initial settings.
- 5. Select your preferred connection method, and select “Network” from the “Settings” menu.
- 6. Sign in with your Google account to access the Google Play Store and its other services.
- 7. Navigate to the “About” section of the menu to check for any available updates.
- 8. If updates are available, follow the instructions displayed on the screen to install them.
- 9. Visit the Google Play Store to download and install your favorite apps and games.
- 10. Customize your home screen layout and settings according to your preferences.
With the MINIX NEO U9-H, all set up and done, you’re ready to stream your favorite movies, and TV shows, and play games. Explore various applications to make the most of your entertainment center.
MINIX NEO U9-H: What’s in the Box?
The package usually contains the following items but these components can vary depending upon the region you are living in:
- The HDMI cable is a standard HDMI cable that is used to connect the MINIX U9-H to your TV.
- The power adapter is a 5V, 3A power adapter that is used to power the MINIX U9-H.
- The user manual provides instructions on how to set up and use the MINIX NEO U9-H.
- The remote control is used to control the MINIX NEO U9-H.
- The 2 AAA batteries are used to power the remote control.
- The IR extender is used to extend the range of the remote control.
- The Kensington lock is used to secure the MINIX NEO U9-H to a surface.
MINIX NEO U9-H: Specifications
The U9-H media streaming player comes equipped with a range of specifications that contribute to its performance, functionality, and entertainment capabilities. Let’s delve into the hardware and software features that power this Android TV box, providing users with an immersive viewing experience and seamless interaction with digital content.
| Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| CPU | Octa Core Cortex A53 |
| GPU | Mali-820 MP3 GPU |
| RAM | 2GB DDR3 (32-bit) |
| Storage | 16GB eMMC 5.0 Storage (MLC) |
| Operating System | Android Marshmallow 6.0.1 |
| Dimensions | 4.9″ x 4.9″ x 0.9″ |
| HDMI | HDMI 2.0 |
| Audio | 3.5mm stereo jack |
| Ethernet | RJ-45 Gigabit Ethernet |
| USB Ports | USB 2.0 port x 3 |
| OTG Port | OTG port x 1 |
| Security | Kensington lock ready |
| Card Reader | Micro SD Card Reader |
| Audio Formats | DTS-HD/DD/DD+/MP2/MP3/WMA/ WAV/OGG/OGA/FLAC/ALAV/APE/AAC |
| Video Formats | DAT/MPEG/MPE/MPG/TS/TP/VOB/ISO/AVI/ MP4/MOV/3GP/FLV/MKV/M2TS/MTS/M4V/WMV/ASF |
MINIX NEO U9-H: Alternatives
Here are some competitive alternatives to MINIX U9-H media streaming device if you want real change irrespective of the cost. Consider your budget, performance expectations, and preferred features when making your decision. Whether you prioritize gaming capabilities, extensive app libraries, or stylish design, there’s an option that fits your entertainment preferences.
Nvidia Shield TV Pro
The Nvidia Shield TV Pro is a high-performance media player optimized for gaming and demanding activities. It can handle multitasking and resource-intensive activities with ease, thanks to a powerful CPU and plenty of RAM. What distinguishes it is its compatibility with Dolby Vision, which enhances the visual experience with vibrant colors and dramatic contrast. It’s an excellent option for clients seeking a comprehensive entertainment center. However, it’s worth mentioning that this higher quality comes at a greater cost than other options.
Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
The Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K offers an affordable option with a focus on 4K content and ease of use. Supporting 4K Ultra HD video and HDR, it delivers a visually rich experience. What sets it apart is the voice remote, allowing users to control the device with voice commands. However, it is crucial to remember that the app selection for the Fire TV Stick 4K may be more limited than on the Roku platform. If you already have an Amazon Prime membership, this gadget links with your Amazon account, making content access even easier.
Mecool KM9 Pro
The Mecool KM9 Pro is a budget-friendly contender in the media player arena. With support for 4K Ultra HD video at 60 frames per second and HDR, it offers good value for its price. Additionally, it includes a voice remote and supports Google Assistant for convenient voice commands. While not as powerful as the Nvidia Shield TV Pro or Roku Streaming Stick 4K, it’s a solid option for users seeking a balance between performance and affordability.
Xiaomi Mi Box S
Its clean and simple exterior distinguishes the Xiaomi Mi Box S. While it may not have as many features as some other alternatives, it does support 4K Ultra HD video and HDR, giving remarkable visual quality. The gadget has a voice control and Google Assistant integration, which improves the user experience. It’s a great option, especially for those who value aesthetics and want a reliable media player for their entertainment requirements.
MINIX NEO U9-H: Pros and Cons
The device’s fitting depends on individual preferences and needs within the context of the evolving media player market. However, here are some pros and cons of the streamer for better assessment:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Supports 4K Ultra HD video at 60fps and HDR | No voice remote included |
| Supports Dolby Atmos and DTS-HD Master Audio | Remote control can be a bit finicky |
| Powerful octa-core processor | Limited app selection compared to some other media players |
| Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Can be a bit pricey |
| Gigabit Ethernet port | Still operates on Android Version 6 |
| Runs on Android 6.0 Marshmallow | |
| Customizable launcher | |
| Supports a wide variety of apps |
Conclusion
My admiration for MINIX Android boxes has always been substantial. Their robust build quality and extensive post-sale developer support set them apart. Unlike most Android TV boxes that usually cease to receive firmware updates shortly after launch, MINIX stands out by consistently providing updates for 12-18 months post-release. While they may carry a slightly higher price tag compared to their competitors, this commitment to ongoing support ensures the MINIX U9-H remains a reliable Android box that can serve you well for years to come.
MINIX NEO U9-H: FAQs
Here are a few frequently asked questions about this media streaming device:
