In an exciting development from Apple, rumors are circulating that the tech giant is looking to close the feature gap between the upcoming iPhone 17 and its Pro counterparts, focusing particularly on display specifications. Traditionally, the standard iPhone models have featured displays with less advanced technology than those in the Pro line. However, whispers from the rumor mill suggest that this might change. The upcoming iPhone 17 could potentially boast a higher refresh rate, possibly aligning closer to the ‘Pro’ series, although it’s still unclear whether the leap will be to 90Hz or all the way to 120Hz.
This move would mark a significant shift as Apple plans to introduce its ‘ProMotion’ technology to the standard iPhone lineup for the first time. The unveiling of the iPhone 16 earlier this year put the spotlight on its revamped design and stylish vertical camera module, yet it left display enthusiasts wanting with its steady 60Hz refresh rate. Now, it seems Apple might elevate the iPhone 17 display experience, as revealed by a credible leaker on Weibo known as Digital Chat Station.
Previous models have kept the ProMotion technology exclusive to ‘Pro’ versions of iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks, which allowed for variable refresh rates. Rumored developments suggest that Apple envisions a lineup-wide transition to 120Hz panels, though official confirmation remains pending.
Moreover, the company is expected to leverage advanced LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) panels across the iPhone 17 range. These panels are not only fit for 120Hz refresh rates but are also energy-efficient, potentially reducing battery consumption. By contrast, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus have been limited by LTPS (low-temperature polycrystalline silicon) panels, restraining them to a 60Hz display refresh rate.
Should this refresh rate shift take place, consumers may also see the introduction of the Always-On display for the standard models. Enabled by LTPO technology’s variable refresh rate, the display can smoothly adjust from 120Hz down to 1Hz, adapting to the visual content’s demands. An added benefit would be the introduction of features like StandBy mode and more, available for the first time on standard models.
These are not the first hints about the iPhone 17 transitioning to 120Hz technology, as renowned display analyst Ross Young previously supported the speculation that the entire iPhone 17 lineup could integrate ProMotion functionality. Whether these enhancements will lead to a price hike for the standard iPhone models remains an open question. With these changes potentially blurring the lines of differentiation that Apple has historically maintained between its standard and Pro models, the tech community eagerly anticipates further developments. Could this also mean a potential increase in the refresh rate for the iPhone 17 Pro models to 144Hz? Apple fans are left wondering what jaw-dropping features might await in the next iPhone iteration.
