Nvidia Project Shield Android Gaming Handheld Announced

Nvidia has announced Project Shield, an Android-based gaming handheld. Project Shield by NVIDIA uses the new Tegra 4 CPU/GPU. The Tegra 4 is housed in the control pad which has a 5 inch flip-up touch screen 720p HD display. It also features an HDMI port for video output, micro-USB for accessories and docks, and a microSD port for expandable storage. Nvidia say that the system is pure Android capable of accessing all the Android game's catalog and even the Steam's one.

Using software built by Nvidia, the Shield provides remote access to the games installed on your gaming PC at home, including Steam titles. Users can play any PC game on the Shield from anywhere within the same local Wi-Fi network.

Take your gaming anywhere with Project SHIELD, a gaming portable designed for gamers who yearn to play when, where and how they want. With the advanced processing power of NVIDIA® Tegra® 4, a full-size game controller, breakthrough Wi-Fi technology, and stunning HD video and audio, Project SHIELD redefines what gaming can be.

• Custom 72-core NVIDIA GeForce® GPU
• Quad-core A15 CPU
• Ultimate control and precision with a full-size console-grade game controller
• 5-inch 720p retinal multi-touch display for high fidelity visuals
• Custom, bass-reflex, tuned port audio system delivers fidelity and custom range never before experienced on a portable device
• 802.11n 2x2 MIMO game-speed Wi-Fi provides high-bandwidth, ultra-fast wireless for seamless game streaming

Project SHIELD is stocked with the latest Android Jelly Bean operating system from Google, providing access to all your favorite Android applications and games
ANDROID GAMING, PERFECTED
Powered by NVIDIA® Tegra® 4, Project SHIELD is made for those who demand amazing gaming experiences. It features precise, tactile controls and the latest version of Android Jelly Bean, giving you the best way to play your favorite Android games.

THE FREEDOM TO BE AFK
Project SHIELD gives you the power to wirelessly access your GeForce® GTX-powered computer from the comfort of your couch. Play your favorite PC games, including great titles from Steam, on a full-size game controller with ultra-low latency thanks to Project SHIELD's game-speed Wi-Fi and the fast performance of GeForce GTX 600 GPUs.

Pricing has yet to be revealed, but Nvidia says Project Shield will ship in Q2 of this year.