Simple navigation for video playback was hampered by the default apps which organise files somewhat idiosyncratically, to the extent that those wishing to play back their own music or videos may need to spend some time organising their libraries. Even simple functionality such as taking screenshots - which would have been invaluable for this review I might add - was not possible as the feature was only introduced with version 2.3.3 of Gingerbread. Usability of the Noontec A9 is a little hampered by the choice of OS version, specifically 2.3.1. It's disappointing that given the size and weight of the A9 it cannot be mounted to the back of a TV via VESA mounting points that might be an interesting feature to incorporate into later revisions. The power LED makes it easy to know whether it is on or off, yet doesn't dazzle when watching images on-screen as some similar devices do.

As a set-top device, the A9's glossy black finish looks great under a TV with a similar aesthetic, though it is something of a dust magnet.

Noontec media player firmware update