Some iPhone 13 models coming in 2021 will use OLED displays from Samsung with low-power LTPO technology, which paves the way for a 120Hz refresh rate, according to The Elec. The article says that Apple is expected to ship between 160 million to 180 million units of iPhones that use OLED panels next year.
The tech giant used OLED panels for its entire iPhone 12 line-up this year, and that trend is expected to continue. The Elec says two out of the four iPhone 13 models will use low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LPTO) thin-film transistors (TFT). LPTO technology is needed for the screens to reach 120Hz refresh rate. All four models will use on-cell touch screens, as well, the article adds.
The Sellers Research Group (that’s me) thinks the report is correct. We’ve been waiting for an Apple smartphone with 120Hz ProMotion screens. Next year should be the year.
A low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) display is a special kind of backplane technology designed for OLED screens and developed by Apple. LPTO tech allows a variable refresh rate of 120Hz for a smooth display and is able to optimize battery life. LTPO displays can already be seen on the Apple Watch Series 5 and Series 6.
Such tech would help bring 120Hz ProMotion screens to the iPhone. According to Apple, ProMotion tech “delivers refresh rates of up to 120Hz for fluid scrolling, greater responsiveness and smoother motion content.”
