SZ Tomato / Eny (E)M8 is an Android TV box powered by Amlogic S802 quad core processor, with 2GB RAM and 16 GB flash, but Stane1983 has been working on an XBMC Linux port for the device, and has released a beta version on Freaktab a few days ago.
The firmware file (MX_LINUX-K200-update.zip) is available, and just need to be copied to an SD card to perform the update. The version is Gotham 13.1. This will completely replace you Android installation, and only works on M8 TV box, as the bootloader is not compatible with other S802 hardware, and the firmware only support AP6330 Wi-Fi module. If you decide not to keep using XBMC Linux, you can revert to Android, but reflashing the firmware via the SD card.
This is a beta version, so expects some bugs. The list of known bugs is as follows:
- Bootlogo and splashscreens (booting up/shutting down) are not shown
- 720p and 1080i/1080p resolutions work for sure, however I’m pretty sure 4k output will not work at all or will not work correctly
- When network connected via cable MAC address is picked randomly so on each reboot box will have different MAC address and IP address assigned by router. This means that router’s DHCP pool might fill up quickly if there are many reboots.
- Some users reported USB mouse issues, poor Ethernet performance, etc..
- Many add-ons do not seem to work
You can also access the device with SSH using root/letmein credentials.
Thanks to Stanislav for the tip.
Jean-Luc started CNX Software in 2010 as a part-time endeavor, before quitting his job as a software engineering manager, and starting to write daily news, and reviews full time later in 2011.
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if any one its stane1983 he can do it i have droidstick 8726-mx working with hes linux mx its really good
With the list of bugs, what good is the update? What are the pros? Does it cause anal leakage? Goodness. Who needs bootlogo, no big deal. No 4k, no big deal. Different MAC addresses = Big deal. Annoying router reconfigs never fun. Mouse issues = Not good. Poor ethernet performance = NOT GOOD!!!! The wifi on the M8, as stated on CNX, has the worst rated wireless speed and range ever recorded on any box ever made. Believe me, I have one. I have to run on ethernet because my ethernet cord is longer than the box’s wifi range. Absolutely horrible!! Next, add ons do not work = No big deal if home screen app add ons // BIG DEAL if XBMC add-ons don’t work. What Pros does this Linux update bring? I am using Oman’s XBMC with the May root and it works decent but XBMC crashes 15% of the time and the box reboots 5% of the time. I also only use the box thru ethernet. I have not tried the 4k features. Thanks for the update Jean-Luc, no disrespect to you or Stane1983 you guys are the best!!! I am just being honest as you are, Jean-Luc. YOU ARE THE MAN and you have the best and most honest reviews. When are your contests starting back up?
XBMC Linux is also available for Tronsmart Vega S89 / Beelink S82 now -> http://www.stane1983.com/amlinux/