Apple is gearing up for significant upgrades in the iPhone 17 lineup, featuring LTPO displays, ProMotion technology, in-house WiFi and Bluetooth chips, and its own 5G modem.
In the ever-evolving world of smartphones, smooth 120Hz refresh rate displays have become almost a standard, even for budget and entry-level phones. However, Apple has been an exception with its $699 and $799 iPhone 16 and 16 Plus models. This scenario is expected to change next year as Apple plans to introduce LTPO (low-temperature polycrystalline oxide) displays in all iPhone 17 models.
According to a report from South Korean media ETNews, the iPhone 17 will likely incorporate LTPO displays, a technology known for its power-saving capabilities through variable refresh rates ranging from 1-120Hz. While the report doesn’t explicitly mention ProMotion support or a 120Hz refresh rate, LTPO panels are typically used to enable these features.
LTPO Technology: A Game Changer
LTPO technology, which stands for low-temperature polycrystalline oxide, is an advanced back panel for OLED screens. It helps in reducing power consumption by adjusting the refresh rate based on screen activity. For example, the screen can lower its refresh rate to 60Hz, 30Hz, or even 1Hz when there’s no motion, such as when reading an article. This not only enhances battery life but also provides a smoother user experience.
ProMotion and Apple’s In-House Innovations
Apple’s ProMotion technology, which has been a hallmark of its iPad Pro since 2017, debuted in iPhones with the iPhone 13 lineup but has been limited to the Pro and Pro Max models. Meanwhile, competitors like Samsung, Google, and Xiaomi have introduced 120Hz screens in their cheaper flagship and budget phones, pushing Apple to follow suit.
In addition to ProMotion displays, the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to feature Apple’s in-house WiFi and Bluetooth chips and the company’s proprietary 5G modem, moving away from Qualcomm’s Snapdragon chips. This shift signifies Apple’s desire to have greater control over its hardware components, potentially leading to better optimization and integration.
Upcoming iPhone SE 4
Interestingly, these in-house innovations will not be limited to the high-end iPhone 17 models. Reports suggest that the upcoming iPhone SE 4, which will be based on the iPhone 14 chassis, will also include these new in-house chips. This development indicates Apple’s commitment to bringing advanced technology even to its more affordable models, ensuring a broad consumer base can enjoy enhanced performance and features.
Conclusion
Apple’s iPhone 17 lineup promises to bring exciting advancements, including ProMotion displays, LTPO technology, and in-house WiFi, Bluetooth, and 5G modem chips. These upgrades are not only expected to enhance the user experience with smoother visuals and longer battery life but also demonstrate Apple’s commitment to innovation and control over its hardware. With the inclusion of these features in the upcoming iPhone SE 4, Apple continues to push the boundaries of what is possible in the smartphone industry.