The Apple TV 4K, still one of the best-loved streaming devices, is getting a nice (and free) update in December. It will allow users to stream their favorite content in a new aspect ratio.

Apple has long promised that its streaming set-top boxes would support 21:9, and it looks like that wish is coming true. Not only is Apple adding native support for 21:9, but also a number of additional aspect ratios currently found in the tvOS 18.2 beta.

The new aspect ratios also include automatic settings to help users who do not know exactly what aspect ratio they are viewing. Aspect ratio relates to the scaling of the image on a particular screen, 16:9 being the de facto format for most LCD screens, TVs, etc. Some of the best PC monitors, including curved and widescreen models, have aspect ratios of 21:9 or even 32:9, making the new Apple TV 4K update a great new feature for users who want a little more from their streaming device. While there are very few movies and shows that support different aspect ratios, users will still have more options to experience their favorite content.

Apple released the new tvOS 18 update this September, bringing together several important updates to the platform, including InSight, enhanced interactivity, and on-device Siri. Now, according to findings by Sigmund Judge in a tvOS 18.2 beta leak, it appears that additional aspect ratio support will add even more functionality.

The full list of aspect ratios that will be added to Apple TV 4K is as follows:

Auto-setup is a simple plug-and-play feature that allows the device itself to automatically fit the aspect ratio of your screen, streamlining the entire process. Apple also includes several aspect ratios that are rarely used by the average consumer, such as the 2.39:1 aspect ratio found primarily on movie theater projectors.

Not only does this make it easier for users to customize their viewing experience in a much more fluid way, but it also allows creators to create more content that fits these ratios, even if the primary aspect ratio of most TVs and screens is 16:9.

However, you will have to wait a bit, as the new tvOS 18.2 update will not officially launch until early December. The update will also include features missing from the initial launch of the tvOS 18 update, such as Snoopy and Apple Originals screensavers, but these require an Apple TV 4K 2nd generation or later.

This new update should make the Apple TV 4K even more attractive as a streaming device; the Apple TV 4K's Quick Media Switching feature is an HDMI 2.1 feature that allows 1-3 seconds of black The Apple TV 4K is one of the only devices, aside from some Samsung QD-OLED TVs, that can take advantage of this feature.