Question 1

For use as TV media center for streaming movies and live TV
What is the best software for KODI/BXMC
Android or OpenELEC/XBMC??

I noted on Solidrun website both are available

Thanks

Accepted Answer

XBMC was renamed to Kodi.. So to clarify, I believe you're asking which is better: Kodi on Android or OpenELEC/Kodi.

Likely, it will depend what/how you plan to use the device. Mine is dedicated to my TV, only streaming content. OpenELEC fits this perfectly, it boots directly into Kodi and is always ready for streaming. Performance wise, you shouldn't see much difference. I replaced an acer revo nettop box with mine and haven't had any issues, it's been a perfect replacement. OpenELEC is more responsive than on the resources constrained RaspberryPi model B (original). The CuBox has flawlessly played any media I throw at it, including high bitrate 1080p videos.

Running the android version would allow you to use the CuBox for other android applications, if desired. If you solely want to use the device for streaming, you won't find many differences between Kodi versions but the OpenELEC/Kodi option probably fits your use case best and should deliever a great experience in regards to usability. Hope this helps.

Question 2

As a TV media box for streaming movies and live tv.
What is the best for KODI/BXMC:  Android or OpenELEC/XBMC ??

Accepted Answer

I use OpenElec/XBMC since it appears (to me) to be a more integrated solution.  I've used Openelec for several years now (previously on different HW - Zotac Mini-all-in-one) and it's been kept current with both the linux core and XBMC. There's a pretty good forum on OE's site for help and questions.

The OE update process is really easy (copy 4 files into the update directory or have auto-update enabled).  Once an update is available, a reboot automatically applies it from the update folder, cleans up and the update is complete.

I haven't used the Android/XBMC at all so I can't really comment on it.

(XBMC used out of habit...OE is using/supporting Kodi)...

Steve

Question 3

Does this have access to the play store and google play movies?

Accepted Answer

The short answer is yes; however, let me qualify this answer. When you first receive your CuBox-i4 Pro, you will need to visit the solid-run support website (web address is included in package) to format the micro-SD card so you can actually use the CuBox [mine came with a 4GB micro-SD card; I'm guessing yours will, too]. When you visit the aforementioned website, you will find out that you have the option to install one of a few base operating systems: (1) Android Kitkat; (2) GeeBox; or (3) OpenELEC. If you choose to install (1), you will be able to access the Play Store and Google Play movies utilizing your established Google account. I installed (1) on my Cubox, and it works perfectly. It’s like having an Android smart phone/tablet right on your tv! Hope this helps (:

~Thomas

Question 4

Do you have the 220V option on this?

Accepted Answer

The Cubox is alimented by an external power adapter (like a cell phone). 
I do not see any option on Newegg's site to specify the voltage so I think you can only get a boxes with a US (110V) power adapter.  
If you check the solidrun website, you'll see that you can select the voltage of the power adapter during the check out.
You could also buy it from a european reseller and you would get a 220V adapter.
Last solution : buy the US version but use your own adapter. 
Specs are listed on the solid-run website for each model. 
For a cubox-i4pro: DC Jack, 5.5mm Outer Diameter, 2.1mm Inner Diameter, 10.0mm long, 5V , Limited power source up to maximum 3A current

Question 5

Does this model come with an infrared remote control?

Accepted Answer

This model does not come with a remote.

I use a logitech wireless mouse and trackball with it and it works great especially if you want to use it for more than just playing videos.

Question 6

What is the difference between the v1 and v2 of this item?

Accepted Answer

The V1 and V2 both use i.M6X Quad chipset.  The only Difference I can see is the V1 was 1GHz and the V2 is 1.2GHz.

You can find the specifications for the V1 by searching NewEgg for item number 
N82E
168155
80004.  
Reassemble the above number.  This form thinks it's a phone number and won't let me submit it.

The V2 doesn't specify the 470Mbps Ethernet limitation that the V1 did but that may just be an oversight.

Question 7

It says that I can have the XBMC OS installed. How can I d this?

Accepted Answer

The easiest way for a non-techie to get KODI (formerly XBMC) on the device is to first flash Ignition (downloaded from the solid-run wiki) to the mSD and install OpenElec from there through its menus.

Question 8

What is the max size microSD card that can be used with this device?

Accepted Answer

This device supports up to 64GB microSDXC NAND flash memory. I use a Sandisk Extreme MicroSDXC 64GB card in mine and it works great!

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