NVIDIA Shield Portable now receiving Android 5.1 update

NVIDIA has just begun rolling out the big Android 5.1 Lollipop update to its Shield Portable gaming system, which will not only bring along some new functionality, but will also remove a few apps and features that are no longer supported.

The big news here is that the Shield Portable finally has Chromecast support. Now you can easily cast games to your television via Chromecast or any other Google Cast-ready device in your home. With the addition of these new casting features, though, NVIDIA has decided to remove support for Miracast streaming. We’re not quite sure how many users actually use Miracast to stream their games from this device, but the company must have a good reason for removing support.

This update also permanently removes support for Sonic 4, Episode II, Expendable: Rearmed, as well as the stock Android Browser.

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For those interested, there are a few other minor improvements that come along with this update. Check out the full 5.1 changelog below:

• Android 5.1
  • Upgrade to the latest Lollipop OS
  • Fixes a bug that does not allow books to be read in the Google Play Books app
  • Permanently removes Sonic 4, Episode II, Expendable: Rearmed, and Android Browser
• Adds support for Chromecast
  • Enables SHIELD portable as a source device for Chromecast or any Google Cast Ready device connected to your TV
  • Miracast is no longer supported
• Updates Twitch app with latest version

NVIDIA notes that this update is completely optional, but I’m not sure why anyone wouldn’t want the latest software version. I suppose if you’re a big fan of the default Android Browser you might want to stick with your current OS version. If not though, the update is live now, and comes in at a hefty 435MB.