The smartphone industry has long considered high refresh rate displays as a standard feature for premium devices, yet Apple has maintained 60Hz panels in its base iPhone models. This could change with the upcoming iPhone 17 series, marking a significant shift in Apple's display strategy for its mainstream devices.
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| The iPhone 17 Pro, highlighting the anticipation for upgraded features in Apple's upcoming smartphone series |
The Long-Awaited Display Upgrade
According to information from supply chain insider Digital Chat Station on Weibo, Apple is preparing to implement higher refresh rate displays across its entire iPhone 17 lineup. This upgrade would address one of the most criticized aspects of the current iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models, which still feature 60Hz displays despite their premium pricing starting at USD $799.
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| Different iOS interface screens showcasing the anticipated enhancements of the iPhone 17 lineup |
Technical Specifications and Possibilities
While the exact refresh rate specifications remain unconfirmed, industry speculation suggests Apple might opt for a 90Hz refresh rate for the base models. This would represent a middle ground between the current 60Hz and the ProMotion's 120Hz capability found in the Pro models. The base model may not include the variable refresh rate technology that allows for 1-120Hz adaptation, but even a fixed higher refresh rate would significantly improve the user experience.
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| The iPhone 15 Pro models, representing Apple's current technology baseline before the anticipated updates in the iPhone 17 lineup |
Strategic Product Line Changes
Alongside the display improvements, Apple appears to be restructuring its iPhone lineup. Reports indicate that the Plus variants may be discontinued in favor of a new iPhone 17 Air model. This ultra-slim device, reportedly measuring just 5-6mm in thickness, suggests Apple's focus on design aesthetics alongside performance improvements. The Air model is expected to command a higher price point than the current Plus models, though it may offer different specifications targeting style-conscious consumers.
Market Impact and Competition
The timing of this upgrade appears strategic, as Apple faces increasing pressure from Android competitors who have long offered higher refresh rates even in mid-range devices. This move could help maintain the iPhone's competitive edge in the 2025 smartphone market, particularly as Samsung is reportedly developing a Galaxy S25 Slim to compete with the iPhone 17 Air.