According to a fresh report from ETNews, the upcoming iPhone 17 series may eliminate the difference in refresh rates between Pro and standard models. This change suggests that every iPhone 17 version, which includes the basic model and the anticipated iPhone 17 Air/Slim, could feature smoother scrolling and visuals thanks to 120Hz ProMotion displays equipped with LTPO technology.
iPhone 17 Slim Design Preview
In the past, ProMotion displays were only available for the iPhone 13 Pro and later models, leaving the standard versions with a less fluid 60Hz refresh rate. If Apple goes ahead with this update, it would narrow the gap between the tiers of iPhones and could make the base models more appealing against Android flagship devices, which often come with high refresh rates.
Significance of LTPO Technology
The addition of LTPO displays in the base iPhone 17 lineup is quite important. LTPO, or low-temperature polycrystalline oxide, enables a variable refresh rate, allowing the screen to adjust its refresh rate according to the content being displayed. This not only helps in saving battery life but also provides a smoother user experience. In fact, ProMotion displays can even drop down to 1Hz on the iPhone 14 Pro models.
Though it remains uncertain whether the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will be able to go as low as 1Hz, the leap to a 120Hz refresh rate is a big improvement for standard iPhones. This upgrade could attract users who value a seamless and responsive experience.
Suppliers for the New Displays
Reportedly, Samsung and LG will be the sole suppliers for these advanced displays, ensuring that this technology remains within the hands of well-known partners, as Apple still hasn’t looked to Chinese suppliers for LTPO displays.
This change in display technology aligns with Apple's ongoing strategy to lessen the differences between Pro and standard iPhones. The iPhone 16 was said to have the smallest feature gap to date, making the base model an attractive choice. Now, with the potential addition of ProMotion displays, Apple might be removing one of the last significant benefits of the Pro models.
Analysts' Insights on the iPhone 17
Experts such as Ross Young had previously suggested that non-Pro iPhones could receive 120Hz panels with the iPhone 17 series. This speculation, combined with the latest ETNews report, bolsters the likelihood of a significant display upgrade across the entire iPhone 17 lineup.
The iPhone 17, anticipated to launch in the fall of 2025, will also feature a new Apple-designed Wi-Fi 7 chip made with TSMC’s 7nm process, which will replace Broadcom’s chip to help cut costs. Moreover, Apple is developing its own 5G modem, which is expected to launch with the next iPhone SE.
