Tech Notes

Newline provides up-to-date tech notes for our all our panels and software. The below articles contain information about recent updates to Newline products including new and enhanced features, updates to existing features, and bug fixes, for the last 6 months.

NT+ Series Firmware Release
Version: v3.0.63
Release Date: 10/17/2024
Release Method: Over the Air (OTA)

Enhancements:

• Added “Signal Source Wake-up” under Power menu in settings. This setting will allow the panel to be woken up from sleep mode when a source is detected.

• Panel will no longer enter sleep mode when a source is selected and active.

• Added “Source & Power Off” under Input and Output menu in settings. This will cause the panel to begin a power down countdown after 10 seconds of no source being detected.

• Added “Sleep Mode Setting” under Power menu in settings. This will cause the panel to begin a sleep mode countdown after 10 seconds of no source being detected.

• Added support for RS-232 serial commands to open/close Newline Cast & Newline Broadcast.

• Updated Newline VCS to v3.0.31.363.

• Updated Newline Cast to v2.35.4.

Fixes:

• Resolved an issue where ‘Auto Power On’ was not functioning properly after a full power drain.

• Fixed an issue where wallpapers could not be applied through NDM.

• Resolved some issues related to RS-232 commands not being properly recognized.

• Resolved issues related to VCS APK updates.

• Fixed an issue where a static IP address could not be set.

• Fixed an issue that caused Newline VCS to sometimes crash.

• Fixed an issue where Newline Cast was not being recognized when using Miracast.

• Fixed an issue that caused Mixed sound mode to function incorrectly.

• Fixed an issue that caused the menu to sometimes crash when using the remote or mouse under a signal source.

Q Series Firmware Release
Version: v1.2.53
Release Date: 9/26/2024
Release Method: Over the Air (OTA)

Enhancements:

• Added new features to Whiteboard including smart tables, concept maps, 3D shapes, and the ability to import local audio and video to the Whiteboard.
• Updated Radix to version 25.10.3.663.
• Updated Newline Engage Cloud to version 1.0.5.
• The window size for each Classroom Tools function can now be enlarged.
• Introduced a prompt for saving screenshots in the Visualizer.
• Added forward and backward navigation for the split Whiteboard.
• Updated Newline Cast to version 2.35.4.

Fixes:

• Resolved an issue where YouTube search functionality in the Whiteboard occasionally failed.
• Resolved an issue of the panel powering on unexpectedly after being turned off.
• Addressed a Toolbar malfunction issue on firmware versions prior to v1.2.31 after disabling and upgrading, then re-enabling it.
• Fixed an OTA issue that caused updates to get stuck at 0% and fail.
• Corrected the stopwatch functionality in Classroom Tools, which was previously limited to a maximum time of 39:59:9.
• Resolved the loss of images and PDF files when repeatedly saving IWB files in the Whiteboard.
• Added a combo button for handwriting on the Whiteboard, which was previously missing.
• Fixed an issue that caused importing screen layout settings to fail when an SD card is inserted.
• Corrected an issue where custom logos were not displaying transparently.
• Fixed an issue with Merlyn Mind not logging out properly.
• Resolved a scrolling issue in the Release Notes widget when there was excessive content.
• Fixed the display of some icons in the split-screen Whiteboard after switching to full-screen mode.
• Miscellaneous fixes to address some random rebooting issues.

Z Pro Series Firmware Release
Version: V1.0.85
Release Date: 9/5/2024
Release method: OTA (Over the Air)

Enhancements:

• User Profiles can now be accessed on startup without signing into Owner profile.
• Updated firmware to include latest Google Security Patches and other Google enhancements.
• Updated Newline Display Management to latest version and enhanced features.
• Combined “Wake on LAN & Wake on Wireless LAN” into a single toggle under Network & Internet settings.
• Added an icon to display whenever the panel is muted.
• Added an icon to display when the touch has been disabled.
• Optimized the performance of auto power on/off.
• Added an option for “Maximum Volume” in the Admin settings menu.
• Added the option to auto-launch Newline Engage in Settings.
• Added options for EDID and set EDID value to 2.0 by default.
• Other miscellaneous bug fixes and enhancements.

Fixes:

• Fixed a bug that caused NDM to be missing from the app list after an OTA upgrade.
• Fixed a Newline Cast installation issue that occurred after factory reset.
• Fixed a reboot issue when disconnecting a Mac Mini.
• Fixed a reboot issue when switching source to OPS.
• Fixed a bug that caused an error pop-up when attempting to switch user profiles while an OPS is connected.
• Fixed a bug that caused an error pop-up when launching NDM while in the Google theme.
• Fixed a bug that caused the pop-up for power saving mode to be displayed incorrectly.
• Fixed a bug that prevented the importing of sub-users.
• Fixed a reboot issue when a Type-C cable was plugged in or unplugged.
• Fixed a bug that caused ECO mode to not function properly.

Q Pro Series Firmware Release
Version: V1.0.75
Release Date: 7/30/2024
Release method: OTA (Over the Air)

Enhancements:

• User Profiles can now be accessed on startup without signing into Owner profile.
• Updated firmware to include latest Google Security Patches and other Google enhancements.
• Updated Newline Display Management to latest version and enhanced features.
• Added support for Merlyn Mind.
• Combined “Wake on LAN & Wake on Wireless LAN” into a single toggle under Network & Internet settings.
• Added an icon to display whenever the panel is muted.
• Added an icon to display when the touch has been disabled.
• Optimized the performance of auto power on/off.
• Added an option for “Maximum Volume” in the Admin settings menu.
• Added the option to auto-launch Newline Engage in Settings.
• Added the ability for Guest to install apks via USB drive.
• Added options for EDID and set EDID value to 2.0 by default.
• Other miscellaneous bug fixes and enhancements.

Fixes:

• Fixed an issue that caused some NDM commands to not function properly.
• Fixed issues that would cause the panel to randomly reboot.
• Fixed an issue that caused a Google.cn popup window when connecting to a guest Wi-Fi network.
• Fixed an issue that caused PIN/password to not be able to be reset.
• Fixed an issue that removed the grouping option for markings in Whiteboard.
• Fixed an issue where there was a dot displayed in the date format for November.
• Fixed multiple issues that caused various system error pop-ups.
• Fixed an issue that caused the screen to flash when holding down the brightness button.
• Fixed an issue that caused some latency when writing/drawing in Whiteboard.
• Fixed an issue that sometimes caused a crash when switching sources.
• Fixed an issue that caused enterprise networks to not automatically re-connect after a reboot.

Z Series Firmware Release
Version: V1.2.43
Release Date: 6/5/2024
Release method: OTA (Over the Air)

Improvements：

• Added option to toggle left and right Toolbar in Quick Settings menu.
• Added a new application: Screen Recorder.
• Changed default date format to MM/DD/YYYY.
• Added additional background options on the Whiteboard.
• Added option to toggle OTA Notification via administrator settings.
• Added feature in administrator settings for users to login via QR code.
• Added rear Type-C to the source menu.
• Added dynamic wallpapers.

Fixes:

• Fixed an issue that caused some whiteboard files to not open.
• Fixed an issue that prevented moving & zooming in/out of objects in Whiteboard.
• Fixed an issue that caused User Profile installed APKs to not be displayed in split screen mode.
• Fixed an issue that caused some language options to not be shown in the Newline guide.
• Fixed an issue that caused whiteboard image search to not function.
• Fixed an issue that caused the annotation button in the sidebar to change to another Source.
• Fixed an issue that prevented the annotation icon from appearing in the sidebar customization list.
• Fixed an issue that caused Whiteboard QR code login window to appear when opening whiteboard.

Q Series Firmware Release
Version: V1.2.45
Release Date: 5/24/2024
Release method: OTA (Over the Air)

Enhancements：

• Added support for Merlyn Mind.
• Updated Newline Cast to v2.31.6.
• Changed default date format on home screen to MM/DD/YYYY.
• Added VPN support in Internet Settings.

Fixes:

• Fixed a bug that caused Gateway IP address to display 0.0.0.0.

NT+ Series Firmware Release
Version: V3.0.56
Release Date: 5/16/2024
Release method: OTA (Over the Air)

Enhancements：

• Added a new Screenshot function (Press “Mic Mute” button on remote to activate).
• Added a “Sound” menu in settings for sound output options.
• Added the ability to disable OTA firmware updates via settings in Radix portal.
• Added a new media player application: VLC.
• Optimized CEC interaction to allow CEC devices and the panel to control each other’s power on/off statuses.

Fixes:

• Fixed a bug that caused query commands to not work when the panel is turned off.
• Fixed a bug that caused the user to be unable to set static IP address when not connected to ethernet.
• Fixed a bug that caused no audio output when connecting HDMI out to another panel.
• Fixed a bug that caused CEC turn off toggle to not function.
• Fixed a bug that caused Newline Broadcast to not be able to be updated.
• Fixed a bug that caused Newline Cast to not be able to be updated.
• Fixed a bug that caused the volume level to not be shown on screen when using RS232 commands to set volume.
• Fixed a bug that caused RS232 commands for increase/decrease backlight brightness to not work.
• Fixed a bug that caused “Power Supply” query code to not respond when the panel is turned off.
• Fixed a bug that caused OS corruption and unable to reboot issues.
• Fixed a bug that caused 3rd party systems such as Extron to freeze.
• Fixed a bug that caused screen freeze function to display gray screen on sources.

Q Series Android 11 Firmware Release
Version: 1.2.42
Release Date: 5/7/24

Improvements:

• Added separate switches for left and right Toolbar in Quick setting. Matching Toolbar status in Quick setting and settings.
• Added the Auto sleep feature in Settings> Power.
• Added a switch for Guest profile to clear data in Admin mode. When enabled, logging out of the Guest profile will clear all cache and login information.
• Added a switch for Guest profile to install APPs in Admin mode. When enabled, Guest Profile will be able to install APKs.
• Added the Screen Recording app. The behavior of the panel can be recorded.
• Added the date format of MM/DD/YYYY.
• Added the background of the Tennis Court/Volleyball Court/Theater on the Whiteboard.
• Hide the Google Drive/OneDrive login window when opening the whiteboard.
• OTA Notification can be turned on and off by the administrator via settings.

Fixes:

• Fixed issue with some files on the whiteboard could not be opened.
• Fixed the issue that can’t move and zoom in and out of objects with your finger, and thick pen in ‘white with Fine Pen only’ mode in Whiteboard.
• Fixed User Profile installed APKs not being displayed in split screen mode.
• Fixed that some language options are not shown in the Newline guide.
• Fixed the issue that the remote control could not select in the application area.
• Fixed the issue of unable to switch from dynamic wallpaper to set static wallpaper.
• Fixed Mod Cam + microphone volume issue on Android.
• Fixed image search issue in the whiteboard.
• Fixed the issue that Gateway IP address shows 0.0.0.0 when the panel is configured with DHCP for the network settings.

Q Pro Series Firmware Release
Version: 1.0.54
Release Date: 4/2/24

New Features & Enhancements:

• Includes the latest Google security patches.
• Fixed an issue that would cause an error when connecting with your Google Workspace account.
• Fixed an issue preventing the ability to install *xapk apps via Newline Display Management.
• Updated the Radix APK fixing the ability to disable local OTA.
• Added a toggle to enable IP control from Settings > Network.
• Improved compatibility with newer Cisco Meraki Access Points.
• Fixed an issue to disable front lock buttons when using screen freeze.
• Fixed an issue when switching between sources, OPS USB would be recognized as 2.0.
• Added an on-screen indicator when touch is disabled.
• Fixed the issue causing the inability to clear whiteboard slides.
• Fixed an overlapped Newline logo in the top left corner.
• Fixed the issue with Visualizer crashing when setting the resolution to 1600 * 90.
• Fixed an issue preventing network WIFI / LAN setup during setup wizard.
• Fixed a random reboot issue when quickly connecting or disconnecting HDMI/TYPE-C cables.
• Fixed a random reboot issue when switching between OPS and the Visualizer app.
• Fixed an issue preventing a panel shut down when using RS232.
• Cleaned up some RS-232 commands.
• Fixed the issue preventing users from logging into Google drive while using the Whiteboard.
• Fixed the issue when Sound Only option is enabled, the screen could not be woken up after clicking the front power button.
• Fixed an issue with random whiteboard crashes.
• Fixed an issue with the Newline Vote app which prevented saving user results.

Q Series Firmware Release
Version: 1.2.31
Release Date: 11/28/23

Improvements:

• Whiteboard QR code export adds PIN code encryption to improve file security.
• Added an on/off switch for Bluetooth.
• Added a reminder popup when use RS232 shutdown.
• Added a maximum volume feature in Admin mode>Security, you can limit the maximum volume of the panel output.
• Improved APP auto launch URL, default http:// when inputting a URL
• Added the VCS software, version is 3.0.13.345.
• Updated Newline Cast to v2.25 with enhanced Airplay performance.
• Improved some translations, for example, the description of Power button lock and front buttons lock.
• Updated Newline Display Management to 25.9.3.025, added the feature to install APKs for User and Guest profiles.
• User data import and export support dynamic wallpapers and custom wallpapers.
• Improved connections to the Visualizer tool in the whiteboard.
• Added the feature to export PDF to local in Whiteboard.
• Added option for Macedonian language.
• Improved CEC ON/OFF function. When either side is turned off/on, the other side follows.

Fixes:

• Fixed the issue that the brush tool in the whiteboard could not draw when use ruler.
• Fixed the issue where the Visualizer did not show the picture when switching between Android and the source.
• Fixed the issue that whiteboard files were lost when switching from whiteboard to other sources when an external USB device was connected.
• Fixed an issue where the whiteboard could not open files from previous versions.
• Fixed App-auto launch for User settings not working.
• Fixed the crash issue of pasting URL to generate QR code in Classroom tools.

Z Series Firmware Release
Version: 1.2.31
Release Date: 11/27/23

Improvements:

• Added URL blocks in Admin mode > Security to allow or block any URLs based on user preference.
• Enabled OTA notification turn off capability to avoid interruptions during the classes or meetings.
• Enabled automatic firmware updates and auto-install via Admin mode > System update, It needs to be turned on via NDM.
• Updated Newline Cast to v2.25 with enhanced Airplay performance.
• Added the VCS software, version is 3.0.13.345.
• Updated some translations for easy understanding.
• Added a new application ‘Vote’ for users to create votes as well as export the results into native Android Whiteboard.
• Updated Newline Display Management to v 25.9.3.025 by adding power button lock, front powers lock, blocking changing background/themes, OTA notification, disabling local OTA, OTA background download, etc.
• Added ability to export/import user data via local and USB flash disk.
• Improved Newline Classroom Tools by making Curtain, Spotlight, Zoom in/out workable under sources.
• Added default Browser setup by clicking ‘Browser’ icon and pop-up windows over homepage.
• Enhanced Newline Assistant compatibility with the panel.
• Whiteboard QR code export adds PIN code encryption to improve file security.
• Added compass function in Whiteboard Ruler.
• Added an on/off switch for Bluetooth.
• Added a reminder popup for RS232 shutdown.
• Added a maximum volume feature in Admin mode>Security, you can limit the maximum volume of the panel output.
• Improved CEC ON/OFF function. When either side is turned off/on, the other side follows.
• Added option for Macedonian language.
• Added the feature to export PDF to local in Whiteboard.
• Improved connections to the Visualizer tool in the whiteboard.

Fixes:

• Addressed an intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity issue experienced by a small number of users.
• Fixed Wi-Fi list errors.
• Fixed an issue reported by few users where panel rebooting after switching between users.
• Fixed crash issue when exporting to PDF/JPG via OneDrive on Whiteboard.
• Fixed crash issue when customizing background on Whiteboard.
• Fixed the issue that the brush tool in the whiteboard could not draw when use ruler.

Model: NT+ Series
Version: 3.0.43
Expected Release Date: November 20, 2023

Enhancements:

• Upgrade system to Android 13/64 bit.
• New feature: Bluetooth.
• New feature: Muti-tasks (When the remote control focus is at the top of the Gadgets menu, press ‘Up’ button 2 times).
• New feature: Customized modify the signal source name.
• New feature: Auto-launch app and URL when booting panel.
• New feature: Wake on wired LAN.
• Adds a popup when switching on the WOL switch.
• Pre-install Newline App Store.
• New feature: The image setting can be adjusted by clicking the ‘menu’ button under the signal source channel.
• New feature: Certificates can be installed without a network module.

Fixes:

• Fixes a bug causing RGB issue (cycling solid colors) when Apple TV goes to sleep.
• Fixes a bug causing unsatisfactory screen when connecting Apple TV and Poly devices.
• Fixes a bug causing set custom logo failed.
• Fixes a bug causing panel schedule power on failed.
• Fixes a bug causing takes too long to enter signal source recognition after first power up.
• Fixes a bug causing noise from external speaker devices.
• Fixes a bug causing unexpected Wi-Fi & LAN disconnection after panel reboot.
• Fixes the bug causing incorrect installation of Wi-Fi certificates.
• Fixes a bug causing signal source channel displays reddish/grayish images.
• Fixes a bug causing custom image setting failed including Custom, Hue, Saturation.
• Fixes a bug causing the ‘This app was built for an older version of Android’ pop-up to appear when launching the Newline Cast app.
• Fixes a bug causing a gray screen when using Newline Cast app/web.
• Fixes a bug causing Office Suite unable to open PPTX files.
• Fixes a bug causing incorrect screen direction when broadcasting in VCS portrait mode.
• Fixes a bug causing static IP not to be saved or lost.
• Fixes a bug causing panel to freeze while connecting to wpa2/3 networks.
• Fixes a bug causing some third-party apps downloaded from the App Store were not displayed in the correct orientation in portrait mode.
• Fixes a bug causing panel does not power on via CEC if it lost power first.
• Fixes a bug causing some versions of firmware have a probability of black screen when OTA upgrading.
• Fixes a bug causing the Wi-Fi & Ethernet switch to turn off automatically.
• Fixes a bug causing panel to fail to power off when turning off the wake-up source option.
• Fixes a bug causing the return code of RS232 commands to be lost.
• Fixes a bug causing panel to not follow Apple TV sleep.
• Optimizes the process of switching between static IP Ethernet and Wi-Fi.
• Optimizes the auto launch app when booting the panel feature.

Q Series Firmware Release
Version: 1.2.18
Expected Release Date: Early November 2023

IMPROVEMENTS

• Enhanced Whiteboard QR code export with added PIN code encryption for improved file security.
• Introduced a convenient on/off switch for Bluetooth functionality.
• Implemented a reminder popup when using RS232 shutdown.
• Added a maximum volume feature in Admin mode>Security, allowing you to limit the panel output’s maximum volume.
• Improved APP auto-launch URL handling, now defaulting to “http://” when inputting a URL.
• Expanded multi-user capacity.
• Included the VCS software, now at version 3.0.13.345.
• Enhanced translations, such as those related to the Power button lock and front buttons lock descriptions.
• Updated Newline Display Management to v25.9.2.898.
• Enhanced user data import and export, now supporting dynamic wallpapers and custom wallpapers.
• Improved connections to the Visualizer tool within the whiteboard.
• Added the capability to export PDF files locally in the Whiteboard.
• Introduced an option for the Macedonian language.
• Improved CEC ON/OFF function, ensuring that when one side is turned off/on, the other side follows suit.

FIXES 

• Resolved the issue where the brush tool in the whiteboard could not draw when using the ruler.
• Fixed the problem where the Visualizer did not display pictures when switching between Android and the source.
• Addressed the issue where whiteboard files were lost when switching from the whiteboard to other sources while an external USB device was connected.
• Fixed the problem where the whiteboard could not open files from previous versions.
• Corrected the App-auto launch issue for User settings, ensuring it now functions properly.
• Resolved the crash issue when pasting a URL to generate a QR code in Classroom tools.

Q Series Firmware Release
Version: 1.2.14
Release Date: 9/12/23

IMPROVEMENTS

• Added URL blocks in Admin mode > Security to allow or block any URLs based on user preference.
• Enabled OTA notification turn off capability to avoid interruptions during the classes or meetings.
• Enabled automatic firmware updates and auto-install via Admin mode > System update.
• Updated some translations for easy understanding.
• Added a new application ‘Vote’ for users to create votes as well as export the results into native Android Whiteboard.
• Updated Newline Cast to v2.31.1 with enhanced Airplay performance.
• Updated Newline Display Management to v25.9.2.854 by adding power button lock, front powers lock, blocking changing background/themes, OTA notification, disabling local OTA, OTA background download, etc.
• Added ability to export/import user data via local and USB flash disk.
• Improved Newline Classroom Tools by making Curtain, Spotlight, Zoom in/out workable under sources.
• Added default Browser setup by clicking ‘Browser’ icon and pop-up windows over homepage.
• Enhanced Newline Assistant compatibility with the panel.

FIXES 

• Addressed an intermittent Wi-Fi connectivity issue experienced by a small number of users.
• Fixed Wi-Fi list errors.
• Fixed an issue reported by few users where panel rebooting after switching between users.
• Fixed crash issue when exporting to PDF/JPG via OneDrive on Whiteboard.
• Fixed crash issue when customizing background on Whiteboard.

Software Update
Software: Newline Broadcast
Version: Windows 2.4.6 & Android 2.8.4
Expected Release Date: September 6, 2023

Newline Broadcast 2.4.6 for Windows

Analytics

Newline Broadcast 2.4.6 for Windows brings with it our new analytics platform. What does it mean for you? We can use this data to understand how Broadcast is being used. Influencing how we shape the product to make it the best we can.

Is any personal data stored? We do not store any personal data, and can not see data on a specific device. Instead it gives us a global view of usage.

Better Connectivity

This update reduces the network complexity, requiring only one port to be open. This port should already be open on all but the strictest networks (port 443). Meaning, users will find it easier to get Broadcast up and running within their networks.

Newline Broadcast 2.8.4 for Android

Analytics

Newline Broadcast 2.8.4 for Android brings with it our new analytics platform. What does it mean for you? We can use this data to understand how Broadcast is being used. Influencing how we shape the product to make it the best we can.

Is any personal data stored? We do not store any personal data, and can not see data on a specific device. Instead it gives us a global view of usage.