The rumored Apple TV 2021 refresh is getting ready for gaming with the news that the upcoming set-top box will support a smooth 120Hz refresh rate.

The current lineup of Apple TV devices is hampered by hardware, with the Apple TV 4K limited to 60Hz. However, 9to5Mac found mention of 120Hz support in the tvOS 14.5 beta code, bolstering the case for a new Apple TV this year.

It is already known that Apple is enhancing its Apple Arcade game library, with NBA 2K21, Fantasian, and a number of iOS classics added to the service last week. tvOS 14.5 beta was released earlier this year with PS5 and Xbox Series X controller support, it is safe to assume that Apple is focusing on games this year.

The new Apple TV should have an HDMI 2.1 port to support 120Hz at 4K; 9to5Mac reported that such a device is in development for 2019, but we have yet to see it. However, Cupertino would never rush to market to catch up with competitors, so they may be testing this in-house and waiting for the right time to launch a new Apple TV specifically for gaming. [The iPhone 12 series has a 60Hz refresh rate, while Android devices boast 90Hz to 120Hz. Also, Apple is rumored to be working on a foldable iPhone, but does not appear to be in a hurry to release one.

But from what we've heard about the Apple TV 2021 refresh, the set-top box should be perfectly poised to captivate gamers; you'll need a TV capable of 120Hz, see Tom's Guide's picks for the best gaming TVs

The TV should be perfectly poised for captivation.

Ideally, if the next generation of gaming consoles is on the horizon, you'll want a 4K TV that supports 120Hz.