With the arrival of the ultra-high definition Blu-ray standard, more and more products are grabbing attention with "4K HDR". These devices boast powerful local decoding capabilities and a rich experience akin to a PC. Major brands are rushing to release related products, leading to increasingly complex and expensive systems. Consumers often want a straightforward TV box, but end up paying for a bloated system. For regular users, the primary function of a TV box is simply to stream online content, as long as the library is extensive enough to cover basic needs. If the system is streamlined and intuitive, and offers smart extension features, it fully meets daily requirements. Skyworth A1 PLUS is a smart network set-top box designed with this "just-right" philosophy in mind.
The Skyworth A1 PLUS is powered by a quad-core Cortex A7 processor running at 1.0 GHz, ensuring it meets everyday needs. It features a quad-core GPU unit for smooth gaming on big screens, and 1GB DDR3 RAM ensures smooth system and app performance. Its flash memory uses 8GB EMMC TLC FLASH, which is 60% faster than regular NAND flash, and supports 100M Ethernet and single-antenna WiFi for a seamless home internet entertainment experience. The software is built on Android's open-source foundation with SKY UI 4.0, supporting up to 1080P@60fps resolution output. It integrates a vast array of online video resources and rich internet-enabled services like application extensions, H.265 hard solution, and popular internet video formats. Additionally, Skyworth A1 PLUS supports color difference, polarized, and shutter 3D formats, offering a rich experience for 3D movie enthusiasts. Let’s take a closer look at the Skyworth A1 PLUS.
Out of the box, the Skyworth A1 PLUS has a striking flaming red design that enhances its recognition. The packaging continues the A series' light-colored design, with the "1G + 8G" label prominently displayed on top. One standout feature is the "More TV" design element, giving the product a personal touch. The internal accessories are neatly arranged, and the host comes with plastic protection, showcasing the attention to detail by a major manufacturer. The specific model of Skyworth A1 PLUS is Q0103, measuring 148x145x61mm with a gross weight of 0.5kg.
The Skyworth A1 PLUS boasts a stylish and elegant design, featuring rounded corners and smooth lines. The most eye-catching aspect is the touch of flame red on the top, creating bold color contrasts that enhance its recognizability. The embossed corporate logo on top is also highly noticeable, highlighting the strong brand awareness of Skyworth. The overall design is compact and lightweight, fitting comfortably in one hand.
Skyworth A1 PLUS adopts a new structural design with an ABS-grade environmentally friendly material, making the product appear more upscale while maintaining environmental and safety standards. The bottom is affixed with product nameplate information and product SN, MAC code.
The remote control is equipped with a standard 28-key infrared remote control powered by two No. 7 batteries. It includes areas for television learning, function keys, and a numeric keypad. The keys offer comfortable press-and-bounce feedback, and the design mimics artificial leather for a pleasant feel. Notably, the remote control features a "Ï€" key. When unsure what to watch, pressing the "Ï€" key intelligently recommends different content, offering an enjoyable experience.
Let’s explore the family portrait:
The system interface is based on SKY UI 4.0, which uses a vertical tumbling waterfall flow. Unlike traditional smart TV boxes, this design considers four aspects: appearance, system, resources, and features. The flame design gives Skyworth A1 PLUS a distinct identity. How does Skyworth A1 PLUS optimize its system? Equipped with SKY UI 4.0, the software interface is deeply optimized for user experience, offering a warm and simple UI. Setting up WiFi is straightforward upon first boot.
For more detailed adjustments, users can enter the system settings menu to customize network, display resolution, display area, sound, and more. Skyworth A1 PLUS supports up to 1080P@60fps resolution output, with audio support for decoding and source code output formats. This allows users to output high-definition surround audio to the backend amplifier for multi-channel decoding and output, enhancing the audio and video experience. Additionally, Skyworth A1 PLUS provides a smooth system upgrade experience, with automatic detection of new versions and one-click updates over the network.
Pressing the remote control’s menu button reveals hidden options for video search, third-party application shortcuts, video area binding windows, system settings, message viewing, and one-click system optimization (clearing memory). Compared to the disorganized horizontal layouts common in the market, Skyworth A1 PLUS customizes its UI for TV users’ habits, adopting a more humanized vertical tumbling waterfall flow. Large module designs, simple layouts, and logical simplicity make the system accessible to both seniors and children. The UI is divided into five screens displaying content: "My," "Popular," "Classified," "Zone," and "Application." Users can directly click on favorite apps or video content, and intelligent content recommendations ensure easy discovery of preferred content on the homepage.
Online resources are another highlight, integrating iQIYI and Sohu multi-platform resources. The richness of online video resources is the primary factor users consider when choosing a smart TV box. While apps and games can be installed via USB drives, online application and game malls offer more choices and convenience. What performance does Skyworth A1 PLUS offer in its online services?
Online video resources include Galaxy TV (GITV), one of the seven licensed broadcasters, integrating iQIYI and Sohu video sources. Sohu Video is among China’s two largest video platforms, offering numerous self-produced dramas and exclusive content. The combination of these platforms gives Skyworth A1 PLUS a robust library.
In terms of user experience, Skyworth A1 PLUS supports up to 1080P resolution, with picture ratio settings (original ratio, full screen, 16:9, and 4:3 options) and skipping title and tail adjustments for a more humanized experience. Hardware-wise, Skyworth A1 PLUS supports hard H.265, allowing users to enjoy the same video quality at half the bandwidth compared to H.264, resulting in smoother and clearer online video streaming.
The Skyworth A1 PLUS VIP account is managed by Skyworth Digital. Users can register via the homepage's "Account" option, providing monthly, quarterly, or annual payment plans. New account holders can enjoy discounts when purchasing VIP memberships, with multi-screen sharing available across PCs and mobile devices.
The Skyworth A1 PLUS app store covers audio, video, games, and everyday applications, meeting users’ viewing needs. Popular video platforms like Tencent Video, CIBN Youku, and Mango TV are available, along with casual apps like Happy Cool Run and Day Fishing. Games, talent shows, shopping malls, and music apps can be installed online, eliminating the need for PC downloads and installations.
Features: More Fun Plays. During testing, several practical machine designs were noted. Skyworth A1 PLUS supports both DLNA and AirPlay protocols, allowing seamless screen casting from Apple and Android devices. Connecting to a stereo enhances the music experience. The box also supports WeChat connectivity, enabling photo and image sharing on the living room screen.
Additionally, Skyworth A1 PLUS features a "child lock" function, limiting usage to 15/30/60/120 minutes post-boot, requiring a password to unlock. This is practical for families with children. Another unique feature is its wireless routing functionality, turning the box into a free WiFi hotspot.
In conclusion, Skyworth A1 PLUS strikes a balance between simplicity and functionality, offering a "just-right" experience at 299 yuan. Its high visual recognition, rich video resources, and practical features make it a grounded product that appeals to the masses.
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