iPhone 17 lineup may include 120Hz ProMotion displays

iPhone 17 Lineup May Include 120Hz ProMotion Displays: A Significant Leap Forward

Apple’s upcoming iPhone 17 series, expected to launch in September 2025, is rumored to feature 120Hz ProMotion displays across all models. This development would mark a significant shift in Apple’s display technology strategy, bringing smoother visuals and enhanced responsiveness to the entire iPhone lineup.

ProMotion Technology: From Pro Models to the Entire Lineup

ProMotion, Apple’s adaptive refresh rate technology, was first introduced with the iPad Pro in 2017 and later made its way to the iPhone 13 Pro models in 2021. This feature allows the display to adjust its refresh rate dynamically, ranging from as low as 1Hz to as high as 120Hz, depending on the content being viewed. The result is smoother scrolling, more responsive touch input, and improved overall user experience. 

Historically, ProMotion has been exclusive to Apple’s Pro-tier devices. However, recent reports suggest that the iPhone 17 series will democratize this feature, making it available on all models, including the standard iPhone 17 and the new iPhone 17 Air. This move aligns with Apple’s broader strategy of gradually introducing premium features to its entire product range.

Technical Advancements Enabling ProMotion Across the Board

The expansion of ProMotion to all iPhone 17 models is reportedly facilitated by the adoption of low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) OLED panels. These panels are more power-efficient and support variable refresh rates, making them ideal for implementing ProMotion technology. By utilizing LTPO displays, Apple can offer the benefits of high refresh rates without significantly impacting battery life. 

Additionally, the inclusion of ProMotion across the lineup may also enable features like always-on displays, which have been previously limited to Pro models. This would allow users to view essential information, such as time and notifications, without fully waking the device, further enhancing usability and convenience.

Implications for Users and the Smartphone Market

The introduction of 120Hz ProMotion displays across the iPhone 17 lineup is poised to enhance the user experience significantly. Users can expect smoother animations, more responsive touch interactions, and improved gaming performance. These enhancements are particularly beneficial for activities that demand quick and fluid visuals, such as gaming, video editing, and browsing.

From a market perspective, this move positions Apple more competitively against Android manufacturers, many of whom have already adopted high refresh rate displays across various device tiers. By standardizing ProMotion, Apple not only meets current market expectations but also sets a new benchmark for display performance in smartphones.

The rumored inclusion of 120Hz ProMotion displays across the iPhone 17 series represents a significant advancement in Apple’s display technology. By extending this feature beyond the Pro models, Apple is poised to offer a more uniform and enhanced user experience across its smartphone lineup. As the September 2025 launch approaches, consumers and industry observers alike will be keen to see how these developments materialize and influence the broader smartphone market.