A Chinese leaker is throwing cold water on hopes that Apple's upcoming iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Air will feature full ProMotion technology, despite earlier rumors suggesting the 120Hz variable refresh rate feature would finally trickle down to non-Pro models.
ProMotion has been limited to Apple's premium models since it debuted on the iPhone 13 Pro and the iPhone 13 Pro Max in 2021, but there are high expectations that it will be expanded to all four iPhone 17 models for the first time.
However, Weibo-based Fixed Focus Digital claims their sources indicate the standard iPhone 17 and ultra-thin iPhone 17 Air will pack "just a standard 120Hz screen, not ProMotion with adaptive refresh rate." If accurate, this would mean Apple is sticking with LTPS panels locked at 120Hz rather than the LTPO technology that enables ProMotion's battery-saving variable refresh rates.
While a fixed 120Hz panel would still deliver smooth scrolling and animations, it lacks ProMotion's clever ability to dial down to 1Hz for static content – a feature that preserves battery life and enables always-on display functionality.
The leaker's claim contradicts multiple reports from display analyst Ross Young and Korean outlets suggesting LTPO panels are being prepared for the entire iPhone 17 lineup. Fixed Focus Digital has landed some accurate predictions before, including the iPhone 16's Desert Titanium color, but they've also missed the mark on occasion.
Using a fixed 120Hz panel also feels oddly conservative for Apple, especially as Android competitors have been offering adaptive refresh rates across their lineups for years. That said, Apple has never been shy about withholding premium features to maintain clear product differentiation.
We'll know for sure come September, but don't be surprised if Apple finds yet another way to keep the Pro models feeling, well, pro.
