Apple’s ProMotion technology, characterized by its adaptive refresh rate up to 120Hz, has been a notable feature in the company’s premium devices. With the release of the iPhone 17 series, ProMotion has been extended across all models, including the base versions. However, this inclusion may not significantly enhance the everyday user experience.
What is ProMotion?
ProMotion is Apple’s term for a display technology that allows the screen to adjust its refresh rate dynamically. Traditional displays refresh at a constant rate, typically 60Hz, meaning the screen updates 60 times per second. ProMotion, however, can vary this rate between 10Hz and 120Hz, depending on the content being displayed. This adaptability aims to provide smoother visuals during fast-paced activities like gaming or scrolling, while conserving battery life during static displays by lowering the refresh rate.
ProMotion’s Journey to the iPhone 17
Initially introduced with the iPad Pro in 2017, ProMotion made its way to the iPhone lineup with the iPhone 13 Pro in 2021. For several years, it remained exclusive to the Pro models, serving as a distinguishing feature. The iPhone 17 series marks the first time ProMotion is available across the entire range, including the standard models.
Real-World Impact on Users
While the technical advancements of ProMotion are commendable, its practical benefits for the average user are nuanced. Activities such as gaming and rapid scrolling can feel more fluid with higher refresh rates. However, for routine tasks like messaging, browsing, or watching standard videos, the difference may be subtle. Moreover, the adaptive nature of ProMotion means that the display doesn’t constantly operate at 120Hz; it adjusts based on the content, which can make the enhancements less noticeable in everyday use.
Battery Life Considerations
One of the touted advantages of ProMotion is its potential to conserve battery life by lowering the refresh rate during static content display. However, the actual impact on battery longevity varies based on individual usage patterns. Users who engage in activities that frequently push the refresh rate to its maximum may not experience significant battery savings. Conversely, those with more static usage may see modest improvements.
Comparative Perspective
It’s also worth noting that many Android devices have offered high-refresh-rate displays for years, even in mid-range models. Apple’s delayed adoption in its standard iPhone models suggests a strategic approach rather than an oversight. The inclusion of ProMotion in the iPhone 17 aligns Apple with industry standards but doesn’t necessarily set it apart.
Conclusion
The integration of ProMotion across the iPhone 17 lineup represents a technical enhancement, aligning Apple’s standard models with features previously reserved for Pro versions. However, for the average user, this addition may not drastically alter the daily smartphone experience. While it offers smoother visuals in certain scenarios, its overall impact is subtle, and it shouldn’t be the sole factor influencing an upgrade decision.
