ProMotion and Always-On Display Set to Enhance All Future iPhones. Apple is on the verge of a significant display technology upgrade, aiming to equip the entire iPhone lineup with ProMotion technology. By 2025, the iPhone 17 and its Plus variant are slated to feature OLED displays with energy-efficient backplane technology, marking the debut of ProMotion in the standard iPhone models.
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Currently, the iPhone 15 series distinguishes between its models through the use of different panel technologies. The standard iPhone 15 models utilize low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) displays, whereas the Pro models are equipped with the more sophisticated low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) panels. LTPO technology is the secret behind ProMotion, enabling dynamic refresh rates up to 120Hz for fluid motion in scrolling and video playback, and down to 1Hz for power savings.
This adaptability allows Pro models to offer an always-on display feature, showcasing time, widgets, and notifications even in standby mode, without draining the battery significantly. However, this feature has been exclusive to Pro models due to the panel technology used.
The transition to LTPO panels across the entire iPhone range by 2025 means that all users will benefit from smoother animations and an always-on display, regardless of whether they opt for the standard or Pro model. This move is anticipated to standardize the high-end display experience across Apple’s smartphone offerings.
Although a Chinese supplier is eager to provide Apple with the necessary LTPO panels for the iPhone 17 series, Apple’s stringent quality control standards pose a challenge. Should these standards not be met, Apple may continue to source its LTPO panels from established suppliers like Samsung and LG Display, while potentially using LTPS OLED panels for other models like the upcoming iPhone SE 4.
Additionally, there are hints of a slight aspect ratio adjustment in the Pro models of the iPhone 16, anticipated to cascade down to the standard iPhone 17 models. This adjustment aims to slightly increase the display sizes, enhancing the visual experience for users.
With these advancements, Apple continues to push the envelope in smartphone technology, ensuring that all iPhone users, regardless of the model they choose, have access to the best display technologies available.
