A recent report from a Chinese leaker with a somewhat inconsistent track record has raised questions about the features of the upcoming iPhone 17 and the newly introduced iPhone 17 Air. The leaker has disputed earlier claims that these models will incorporate ProMotion displays, a feature currently reserved for the Pro variants of the iPhone since its introduction with the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2021.
ProMotion is known for its 120Hz variable refresh rate, which enhances the visual experience by providing smoother scrolling and transitions. While many sources have speculated that Apple would extend this technology to the base model of the iPhone 17 and the iPhone 17 Air, the leaker, known as Fixed Focus Digital, asserts that the screens in these non-Pro models will feature a standard 120Hz display instead of the adaptive ProMotion technology.
If the claims from Fixed Focus Digital hold true, it would suggest that Apple continues to utilize low-temperature polycrystalline silicon (LTPS) panels for the lower-end versions of the iPhone, fixed at 120Hz. In contrast, the previous generation models, including the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus, utilized 60Hz LTPS panels. Although a fixed 120Hz screen would offer a smoother experience during activities such as scrolling and animations, it could also lead to increased battery drain, as the display refreshes rapidly even when displaying static content.
In contrast, ProMotion technology dynamically adjusts the refresh rate between 1Hz and 120Hz, based on the content being viewed and user interactions. This capability not only enhances user experience but also conserves battery life significantly. Furthermore, a fixed 120Hz panel would likely mean that the iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air would miss out on Apple's innovative always-on display feature, which allows users to see essential information such as the Lock Screen's clock, widgets, and notifications even when the device is idle.
Despite the claims made by Fixed Focus Digital, evidence suggesting that ProMotion may still be included in the iPhone 17 lineup remains strong. Ross Young, CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, indicated last year that Apple's suppliers are increasing production of LTPO panels for the entire iPhone 17 series. This technology enables variable refresh rates with lower power consumption, supporting the possibility of ProMotion across all models.
Young's assertion has been backed by credible sources, including South Korea's ETNews and The Elec. Although Fixed Focus Digital has made accurate predictions in the past—such as the naming of the iPhone 16E and the availability of the iPhone 16 Pro models in a new bronze finish, later named Desert Titanium—there have also been inaccuracies, including misjudgments regarding the color options for the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus.
As the anticipation builds for the launch of the iPhone 17 lineup, expected around September, the debate over whether ProMotion will make its way into the standard models continues. While the claims from Fixed Focus Digital raise valid points, the cumulative evidence leans toward the inclusion of ProMotion technology. For users eager for enhanced display features, the upcoming months will reveal whether the hopes for ProMotion in the iPhone 17 lineup will come to fruition.
