I couldn’t Download the from the WDC website as the DL limit was reached but i found a Mirror on a fan site of the WD ftp/webstore and got this firmware, I only disclose this info to say that there is a remote chance my copy is different from yours. However all the leg work i did to verify its Authenticity would likely prove otherwise.
Benefits / Improvements:
-Folder covers all displayed correctly.
-The addition of preview Mode instead of icons may prove a solution to the network share issue showing the cover and the jpg
New bugs / Undesirable Behavior:
-After install of the firmware several reboots were required along with a restore to the factory settings to make the access to content possible
-No video of any kind worked until restore of factory settings.
-None of the Previews Showed up for video (likely a result of access violations to said media).
-Playback of any MKV file rendered all playback of video unstable.
-Password verification forced for unprotected files(wasn’t needed to login using 1.01.24).
-Took several minutes for any video to begin playing(caching? spooling?)
Suggestions:
-Allow the use of a USB devices memory to act as the cache for covers and listings to increase access time and playback smoothness.
-allow the use of headers in file names to determine use, IE: CART_batman.jpg to tell the firmware that it is Cover Art and not to show the jpg in the directory, allowing the obvious need to have pictures music and video files all show up on a network share. Or alternatively use the Header in the folder name to specify whether content will be listed in a share; IE MOV_SD files will show up under Video>Network Share>PC name but PIC_family or SND_Music would not.
And of course have Header not shown; IE MOV_SD files would show as SD files.
- Allow skinning, not that the interface isn’t nice but who doesn’t like customization.
-add Support for Streaming video other than YouTube, like security footage of your house from and IP address or hulu.
-Parental Controls would be great: could also use Folder headers or an interface button to add files to the restriced list.
I love the WD TV Live, although it has a lot of rough edges i think you got a really great product.