Apple has taken a measured approach to upgrading displays on its phones, often appearing to lag behind the industry standard.
The company took considerable time to adopt OLED technology, followed by a slow move to eliminate the unattractive notch, and still has room to grow in implementing high refresh rate panels across its lineup.
This trend may finally shift next year. According to a report from Korea’s ET News, which references an industry source, Apple is expected to equip the entire iPhone 17 series with an LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) display, covering even the rumored “slim” model and the base-level version.
It’s been puzzling for many to see Android devices at half the price offering 120Hz displays with a more modern design and faster charging options. However, Apple might finally address at least one of these gaps in 2025.
For those unfamiliar, LTPO is a new backplane technology for OLED screens that enables variable refresh rates while consuming less power. This advancement not only enhances fluidity in touch interactions but also reduces battery consumption.
Until now, Apple has restricted this technology to its high-end “Pro” models, branding the dynamic refresh rate capability as ProMotion.
Additionally, the LTPO technology allowed Apple to offer an always-on display feature exclusively on its premium iPhones.
Reports from Korea, home to Apple’s display suppliers LG and Samsung, suggest that iPhones with 60Hz displays may soon be a thing of the past.
Apple is also considering an OLED upgrade for the iPhone SE next year, though this model will likely stick with a 60Hz refresh rate to keep costs down.
The year 2025 is anticipated to be an exciting one for Apple’s smartphone lineup, with strong rumors of a new “Slim” model in the iPhone 17 series, also referred to in some leaks as the “Air” variant.
This version is expected to showcase a refreshed design aimed at achieving a slimmer form factor.The Dynamic Island might appear more streamlined on this model, while maintaining the same titanium construction as its “Pro” counterparts.
It is expected to feature a 6.6-inch display with a 120Hz refresh rate, and the rear camera’s position may also be adjusted.
Interestingly, despite likely being one of Apple’s pricier phones, this “Slim” model could come with only a single rear camera, potentially due to space limitations in its thinner frame.
The base iPhone 17 and the slim version are both rumored to come with the A19 chip, alongside 8GB of RAM to support the full Apple Intelligence suite.
However, these reports are still in the early stages, and Apple’s plans could change based on cost and supply chain factors as production draws closer.
