The Hisense Pulse Pro Android TV box, featuring the next generation of “Android TV” software, is set to redefine the entertainment experience. Unveiled at CES 2014, this innovative set-top box runs on Android TV v4, demonstrating a departure from traditional Google TV. The Hisense Pulse Pro’s simple home screen, which presents content options in a straightforward manner, is one of its main features. It runs on Android 3.2 Honeycomb which is quite an outdated version. Still, the ongoing updates make its performance acceptable. The Pulse Pro doesn’t fix all of Google TV’s problems, but it can help out in guessing what we should expect from the future Google TV generations.
The Pulse supports both standard cable boxes and satellite choices and includes HDMI, USB, and Ethernet interfaces. All that is required for the former is the brand and model number. You simply connect the IR blasters (which are included), and you’re good to go. The Pulse gets your electronic program guide (EPG) from the internet and thus knows what will be on your TV before you do.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: Price and Availability
This media streamer is available for around 100 USD. This price tag may look a little hefty if we compare it with other streaming devices such as Roku variants or Google Chromecast. However, when it comes to the performance of this little gadget, it totally justifies the price. You can get this device from different online retail shops and sites such as AliExpress, Geeksbuying, eBay, and more. You can also check the official Hisense website to get the latest price check and for the best ongoing deals or discount offers.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: Ingenious Features
The Hisense Media streaming device is a well-rounded streamer that offers a lot of snappy features to make your entertainment experience more fun. It offers many smart features, including Full HD vision and multiple connectivity options. Let’s take a brief look at its features and their functions:
Operating System
The Hisense Pulse Pro leverages the stability and versatility of the Android 3.2 Honeycomb operating system. This version of Android is pretty basic, but the updates it receives make it work fine enough. This solution offers a reliable foundation for easy app integration, giving users different entertainment options.
App Integration
The Pulse Pro comes pre-installed with essential apps and provides access to the Google Play Store. This complete app integration improves the selection of content and services available to users, increasing the device’s total entertainment value.
Intelligent Remote
The remote control of the Pulse Pro is intelligently designed with a teardrop shape, incorporating a touchpad, keyboard, and microphone. The elegant design fits fine in any home entertainment setup and increases user comfort. Moreover, the Wii-like pointer feature makes web browsing more easy. The built-in microphone positions the remote for future voice command functionalities.
Enhanced Performance
With 1 GB DDR3 RAM and 4 GB Flash NAND storage, the Pulse Pro is geared for enhanced performance. The huge memory capacity allows effective multitasking, resulting in a smooth and fast user experience. Also, the large storage capacity allows users to download and install different applications.
Rooting Capability
Enthusiasts will appreciate Pulse Pro’s rooting capability, which allows users to customize and personalize their devices using ADB commands. The unlocked firmware offers a layer of personalization for people looking for a more customized experience.
User-Friendly Setup
Setting up the Pulse Pro is user-friendly, with straightforward procedures. Considerations for IR blaster placement contribute to an uncomplicated initial configuration.
Connectivity Options
The Hisense Pulse Pro comes with many ways to connect and set up your entertainment. It’s got things like an IR blaster, WiFi, Ethernet, USB, and HDMI ports. Multiple connection options make this device more flexible and portable. So, when you are traveling, you can keep this little streamer wherever you go.
Comprehensive Device Compatibility
The Pulse Pro is designed to be compatible with traditional cable boxes and satellite options. By pulling Electronic Program Guide (EPG) information, the device enhances users’ ability to make informed viewing choices. Thus adding convenience to the overall experience.
Full HD Vision
The Hisense Pulse Pro wants you to enjoy your shows and movies in super clear detail with its 1080p resolution. This means that everything, whether you’re watching your favorite movies, playing games, or simply relaxing with your favorite content, will appear sharp and lively. The purpose of this device is to make better your viewing experience by offering the greatest picture quality possible. Thus, making the Hisense Pulse Pro a great pick for your home entertainment.
Future-Proof Design
The inclusion of a built-in microphone in the remote positions of the Pulse Pro for future updates. As new capabilities become available, possibly focusing on voice commands, the device can be updated. This makes sure a future-proof design keeps up with changing technology in the Google TV ecosystem.
Smooth Performance
The gadget stands out for its faster performance, which reduces lag and contributes to a smooth and enjoyable user experience. This responsiveness is especially important to make sure that consumers can browse menus and apps without any trouble.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: Specifications
Here are the remarkable specifications of this media streamer, giving you an overview of its overall performance and functioning.
| Feature | Specification |
| Operating System | Android 3.2 (Honeycomb) |
| Processor | Marvell Armada 1500 (88de3100) 1.2 GHz dual-core processor, 750 MHz GPU |
| Memory | 1 GB DDR3 |
| Storage | 4 GB Flash NAND |
| IR Blaster | Included |
| Wireless Connectivity | WiFi |
| Wired Connectivity | Ethernet |
| USB Ports | 1x USB |
| HDMI Ports | 2x HDMI (1 in and 1 out) |
| Remote Control | Included (features touchpad, keyboard, and microphone) |
Hisense Pulse Pro TV Box: What’s in the Box?
The Hisense Pulse Pro TV box package includes the following components:
Hisense Pulse Pro TV Box
The central device that serves as a bridge between your cable box and television, runs the Android TV v4 software.
WiFi Antenna
A WiFi antenna for wireless connectivity ensures a stable and reliable network connection.
Ethernet Cable
An Ethernet cable is for users who prefer a wired network connection for optimal stability.
IR Blaster
An infrared blaster for controlling other devices, such as your TV and cable or satellite receiver. It aids in seamless integration with your entertainment setup.
Power Adapter
A power adapter to supply the necessary power to the Hisense Pulse Pro TV box.
User Manual
A user manual providing instructions and guidelines for setting up and using the device effectively.
Remote Control
An impressive teardrop-designed remote control with a built-in touchpad, keyboard, and microphone. The remote enhances user interaction and supports voice commands.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV Box: How to Set Up?
Setting up the Hisense Android TV box is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to get your device up and running:
Unboxing
Begin by unpacking the Hisense TV box and its accessories. Ensure that you have all the components mentioned in the user manual.
Connections
- Connect the Hisense streamer to your television using an HDMI cable. Plug one end of the HDMI cable into the HDMI output port on the TV box and the other end into an available HDMI input on your TV.
- If you prefer a wired network connection, use the provided Ethernet cable to connect the TV box to your router. Alternatively, you can connect wirelessly using the built-in WiFi.
Power Up
Connect the power adapter to the Hisense Pulse Pro and plug it into a power outlet.
Power on your television and select the corresponding HDMI input where the TV box is connected.
Remote Setup
Use the included remote control to navigate through the initial setup process. The teardrop-designed remote is equipped with a touchpad, keyboard, and microphone for convenient interaction.
Follow on-screen instructions to configure basic settings, including language, time zone, and network connection.
IR Blaster Configuration
If you intend to control other devices with the Hisense Pulse Pro remote, position the IR blaster in a location with a clear line of sight to your TV and cable/satellite receiver.
Configure the IR blaster settings on the TV box to ensure effective control.
Software Updates
Check for any available software updates for the Hisense Pulse Pro. Install updates to ensure that you have the latest features and improvements.
App Installation
Explore the Google Play Store on the TV box to download and install apps that complement your entertainment preferences.
Once the setup is complete, you can start enjoying the features of the Hisense Pro Smart TV box, including access to streaming services, apps, and a user-friendly interface.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: Pros and Cons
Here are the pros and cons of this media streamer, giving you an overview of its advantages and potential drawbacks. Assess them before making a purchase:
| Pros | Cons |
| Smooth and responsive remote control | Limited control range of IR blaster |
| Future-proof with a built-in microphone | May have set challenges for larger or unique entertainment centers |
| Runs Google TV apps and PrimeTime Guide | Limited compatibility with audio receivers |
| Quick and easy setup with stock Google TV interface | Some users report issues with cable provider configuration |
| Diverse selection of pre-installed apps | Remote microphone functionality expected in a future update |
| Good performance with minimal lag | |
| Easily rootable with an unlocked bootloader | |
| Versatile connectivity options |
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: Alternates
We have listed a few alternatives that you can consider if Hisense’s 100-dollar media streamer is too much for you. These below-listed devices give you everything at a lower price.
Beelink GT King
The Beelink GT King is a great mid-range Android TV box. It is powered by the Amlogic S922X-H CPU, which is known for its balance. It is less expensive than premium options such as the Nvidia Shield TV in terms of price. Because it runs on the Android TV platform, you’ll have access to a wide range of applications for your entertainment needs. Moreover, it offers other savvy features to turn around your basic streaming experience.
Chromecast with Google TV
The Chromecast with Google TV is a low-cost 4K streaming option. It features a Google TV interface, and voice control, and gives you access to a huge amount of streaming apps. Although it may not have as many smart features as the Nvidia Shield, it is a strong competitor at this price point. Moreover, with its Voice assistant, you can easily control your smart home devices like smart doors, smart lights, and any equipment with sensors.
Here is the comparison of their technical specifications to give you an idea of what they got:
| Feature | Beelink GT King | Chromecast with Google TV |
|---|---|---|
| Processor | Amlogic S922X | Amlogic G12C |
| RAM | 4GB DDR4 | 2GB DDR3 |
| Storage | 64GB eMMC | 8GB |
| Operating System | Android 9.0 | Android TV 12 |
| Resolution | Up to 4K UHD | Up to 4K UHD |
| HDR | HDR10, HDR10+, HLG | HDR10, HDR10+ |
| Wi-Fi | Dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz | Dual-band 2.4GHz/5GHz |
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | 5.0 |
| Ethernet | Yes | No |
| USB Ports | 3 USB 3.0 ports | 2 USB 2.0 ports |
| HDMI Output | 1 HDMI 2.1 port | 1 HDMI 2.1 port |
| Other Features | Optical S/PDIF output, microSD card slot | None |
| Dimensions | 100 x 100 x 16.5 mm | 69.9 x 69.9 x 18.3 mm |
| Weight | 250g | 140g |
| Price | $60 | $50 |
Conclusion
What makes it stand out are the robust hardware specs – a Marvell Armada 1500 dual-core processor, 1GB of DDR3 memory, and 4GB of Flash NAND storage. This aids in offering a smooth performance and quick loading times, ensuring you spend more time enjoying content and less time waiting.
The Hisense TV box features a remote with a touchpad, keyboard, and microphone for convenient voice controls. It offers HDMI, USB, Ethernet, and WiFi connections for flexible setups. The Pulse Pro appears as an economical yet high-quality choice for Google TV viewers because of its emphasis on simplicity of use and adaptability.
Hisense Pulse Pro TV box: FAQs
It is a media streaming device that plugs in with your HDMI TV through the HDMI port and turns your ordinary television into a smart one. It operates on Android 3.2 Honeycomb and offers a lot of smart features.
Yes, the smart device remote comes with a built-in keyboard, providing a convenient input method.
Setting up the device is straightforward. It uses the stock Google TV interface, and the process involves connecting the device to your TV and configuring the IR blaster for remote control.
Yes, the provided remote includes a built-in microphone, enabling voice commands for a hands-free experience.
The device comes with a variety of pre-installed apps, including Crackle, Flixter, Netflix, NY Times, Quello, Redux TV, SnagFilms, Thuuz Sports, Twonky, WillowTV, and Zynga Poker.
Yes, the media streamer can be rooted easily with a few simple ADB commands. The device’s bootloader is unlocked at launch, allowing for customization.
The media streamer comes with 4GB of Flash NAND storage, providing space for apps and other content.
While the smart device is capable of handling various apps, including games, it is more suited for casual gaming rather than intensive gaming experiences.
