iOS 14.5 Beta code leak suggests that Apple TV 6 might support a 120 Hz refresh rate

The Apple TV 6 is rumored to be a hardware beast, capable enough to run games on the Apple Arcade service. But, there aren’t any software updates to support the excellent hardware. Reportedly, Apple’s TV software doesn’t have high refresh rate support, which makes the experience a rather less enjoyable one.

However, things are heading towards a change. According to sources, the latest iOS 14.5 Beta code leak consists of a long-awaited addition. The latest code leak has multiple references to tvOS’ PineBoard, with 9to5Mac reporting those references as ‘120Hz’ and ‘supports120Hz’. It suggests that the Apple TV 6 could provide 120Hz support right off the bat.

The current hardware on the Apple TV features an HDMI 2.0 port which is limited to 4K and 60Hz. Thus, not even a software update will lift this limitation. With the Apple TV 6, however, we could see an HDMI 2.1 port inclusion, which supports the 4K resolution and a refresh rate of 120Hz. With the higher refresh rate option, users can experience next-level fluidity that is introduced when enabling the 120Hz mode.

According to sources, the Apple TV 6 will come with appropriate hardware to play gaming titles at a consistent 120FPS. To make the device a complete beast, it is reported to feature the A14 Bionic, the same monster of a processor that powers the current iPhone 12 series.

But, the inclusion of the A14 Bionic is still a rumor, and it’s not confirmed as to whether the hardware will be included. Earlier it was also reported that the device will feature the A12X Bionic and also an advanced cooling solution. Assuming the new Apple TV does arrive with powerful internals, we do not believe operating continuously at 120Hz would be such a problem for it. However, many rumors are surrounding the upcoming Apple TV and it’s best to wait for some official news to arrive.

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