WD TV Live HD Media Player - Official

The original firmware update for the predecessor model (Western Digital WD TV) added features like 1080p 24Hz, MKV chapter support and .MTS/.TP file extensions.

For the WD TV Live HD Media Player, a key firmware release was version 1.01.11 (November 2009) which brought WiFi/Internet streaming support.

Version 1.01.12 followed shortly but reportedly caused some devices to be “bricked” by the update.

Later, version 1.03.49_V (November 2010) included many fixes: HDMI negotiation, video output modes, MKV playback issues, network share fixes, DVD navigation, etc.

Even later versions (for the “Streaming” variant) reached 2.02.32 (August 2014), introducing features like Miracast, BBC iPlayer support (UK), a new GRID UI theme.

Note: According to the support forum, for the older HD Media Player model the last official firmware shown was 1.06.43_V, and older versions may no longer be hosted on WD’s site.

How to Download & Install Firmware

Visit WD’s official support website (Support → Downloads → WD TV Live HD Media Player).

Download the appropriate firmware ZIP file for your model.

Manual update (if automatic fails):

Extract the ZIP to the root (top‑level folder) of a USB flash drive.

Plug the USB into the player’s USB port.

On the player: HOME → Settings → Firmware Update → select Update Device. The player will detect the USB file and begin the update.

Automatic update: If your unit is network connected, enable “Auto Detect New Firmware” in settings and perform update via network.

Keep power connected during the update—any interruption may corrupt the firmware.

What You Get with Updates & Why It Matters

Bug fixes and playback stability: Many fixes in the 1.03.49_V update addressed MKV playback, HDMI flicker, resume issues, network share glitches.

New format / codec support: Older versions added .MTS/.TP files, MKV chapter support, etc.

Streaming app support / UI improvements: Later versions for the Live Streaming line added Miracast, new UI themes, new streaming services.

Performance and hardware compatibility: Some updates include improved USB drive detection, large‐capacity drive support, network share improvements.

Important Considerations & Warnings

Once firmware is updated, rolling back may be difficult or unsupported. Some users noted WD no longer hosted older versions of firmware for certain models.

Installing firmware over a USB drive that also has other data or multiple drives connected may lead to failures. For example, version 1.01.12 caused bricking in some units because the player timed out when building a large media directory.

Ensure the model you have matches the update file. There are several variants (HD Media Player / Live / Live Plus / Live Streaming) and using wrong firmware may damage the device.

Power interruption during firmware update can lead to device failure—do not unplug the unit or remove the USB drive mid‑update.

As models get older, support from the manufacturer wanes. Even if firmware files exist online, some may be “legacy” or user‐provided, so proceed with caution.

Summary

If you have a WD TV Live HD Media Player, updating firmware can significantly enhance playback compatibility, fix bugs and revive older hardware. The major firmware versions chart its evolution. Download the correct file from WD’s support site (or trusted archive), follow the USB or network update procedure carefully, and always keep power stable during the process. Just be aware: older hardware may no longer get official updates, and using unsupported firmware carries risk.