The new Apple TV4K color balance feature works with older models— here's how

The new Apple TV4K color balance feature works with older models— here's how

The new Apple TV 2021 introduces a color balance feature that can be used with older Apple TV models. The biggest feature? It's very easy to set up.

So you can breathe new life into your old Apple TV box. That way, you can take advantage of the latest Apple technology without spending nearly $200 on a new streaming device.

The new Apple TV 4K model was one of the highlights of the Apple Spring Event. The newly released streaming set has impressive features, including an improved remote control.

But you don't have to upgrade to enjoy the new color balance feature. Described as an "innovative color balance process," the new feature is part of the latest operating system update tvOS 14.5. It will roll out to Apple TV HD (2015) and later models "early next week."

Also, for those unfamiliar with the feature, Color Balance can correct for slightly less accurate color calibration on some TVs.

According to Apple, instead of manually adjusting colors directly on the TV, the iPhone's light sensor can be used to "compare the balance against industry standard specifications used by filmmakers around the world. That data is automatically sent to the TV, resulting in more accurate colors and improved contrast levels.

When the new operating system arrives, follow these steps and everything can be set up within minutes. However, for this feature to work, you will need an iPhone, Face ID, and Apple TV, all of which of course must be running the latest versions of their respective operating systems (iOS 14.5 and tvOS 14.5).

You also need to double-check that Dolby Vision is enabled on your TV. This is because Dolby Vision's unique color balance technology will not work if Dolby Vision is enabled.

During "Measure" mode (step 5), Apple TV will display the different colors detected by the iPhone's TrueDepth camera sensor. The tvOS then reads the color data and determines the best color settings for the TV.

When the TV displays "Color Balance Complete," you can press "View Results" to compare both contrast levels and colors before and after processing.

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