This setting, found on Apple TV devices, governs how the device outputs video signals in relation to the content being displayed. When enabled, the device dynamically adjusts its video output to align with the dynamic range of the video source, be it standard dynamic range (SDR) or high dynamic range (HDR). For example, if viewing an older television show mastered in SDR, the output will be SDR. Conversely, when playing a modern movie filmed in HDR, the output shifts to HDR.
The value of this feature lies in its ability to preserve the artistic intent of the content creators. By accurately reflecting the intended brightness and color range, it prevents the artificial expansion of SDR content into HDR, which can result in an unnatural or washed-out appearance. Similarly, it avoids the compression of HDR content into SDR, which can diminish the visual impact of high-contrast scenes. Historically, devices lacked this dynamic adaptation, leading to inconsistent viewing experiences across different types of video content.
