Short for "Reference," indicating the default hardware identifier or "Vendor Data Struct" assigned during the manufacturing or firmware development process. Why Does it Appear on Your TV?
At its core, refers to a specific reference configuration for "Mbox" (Media Box) devices built on the Amlogic Meson family of system-on-a-chip (SoC) processors.
The name given to the kernel and device tree structure for Amlogic's multimedia processors. mbox meson ref
The message often pops up alongside resolution info (e.g., Mbox meson ref - 3840x2160@50Hz ) whenever the box changes its output resolution or refreshes its signal.
Users running custom software like CoreELEC can change this value by modifying the device tree (dtb.img) using specific commands (e.g., fdtput ) to override the product_desc field. The name given to the kernel and device
Your TV is attempting to identify the connected device. Because many generic Android boxes use "Mbox Meson Ref" as their default product description in the firmware, the TV simply displays that internal label.
Some TV boxes allow you to rename the device in the HDMI-CEC or Display settings menu. Your TV is attempting to identify the connected device
Manufacturers sometimes release updates that change this generic label to the actual brand name of the device.
For most users, this label is harmless and does not indicate a technical failure. However, if the notification is intrusive, you can try the following:
A generic term for digital home entertainment centers, often running Android, that integrate TV, radio, and streaming apps.