Industry sources cited by Taiwanese publication DigiTimes claim the two “Pro” models in Apple’s upcoming “iPhone 13” lineup will sport a low-power LTPO display, bringing a 120Hz refresh rate to iPhone 13 Pro displays.
Today’s paywalled report says Apple suppliers Samsung and LG Display are currently converting portions of their production capacity to produce LTPO OLED panels for the new iPhone. The complete conversion of production from LTPS displays to LTPO is expected to be completed in the first half of 2021.
Production capacity will be lower than previously due to added steps in the development process.
Samsung Display and LG Display, now offering LTPS OLED displays for iPhones, are proceeding with capacity conversion to LTPO ones at their Apple-dedicated 6G OLED lines, with the conversion likely to be completed in the first half of 2021, the sources said, adding that production capacity will drop due to the added oxide step when LTPS is converted to LTPO.
Apple is also said to be still working to add Chinese display maker BOE to its list of suppliers for LTPO displays for the iPhone 13, despite having repeatedly failed quality control tests. BOE is said to be testing LTPO panels at a new “Apple” section at one of its plants in China. The report claims BOE “got the go-ahead from Apple to supply OLED panels in December 2020.”
DigiTimes also reports that the iPhone 13 Pro models will feature 15-20% reduced power consumption even with the increased power consumption that a higher refresh rate display presents. The improved power efficiency is likely due to the A15 chip that will power the new handsets.
While Apple first debuted ProMotion in its 2017 iPad Pro, it has not yet been available for the iPhone. The higher 120Hz refresh rate offers a smoother scroll9ing and gaming experience.
(Via MacRumors)