Future iPhone displays may be able to increase their refresh rates by up to four times.
A new Apple patent released by the United States Patent and Trademark Office (via Patently Apple) describes an iPhone display that can update content at up to four times the native refresh rate when high refresh mode is enabled.
For example, if there’s an iPhone with a 60Hz panel, it would be able to increase its refresh rate to 120Hz, 180Hz, or 240Hz immediately and automatically, if needed. This technology exists on the iPad Pro line, but only switches from 60Hz to 120Hz, depending on the content shown.
With the newest patent, future iPhones could increase their refresh rates to as high as 240Hz, when needed.
One reason Apple hasn’t yet introduced the technology in the iPhone is it can be detrimental to battery life or system performance. Fortunately, rumors suggest that Apple plans to adopt low-power LTPO display for the next iPhone models, allowing for 120Hz without significant battery life impact.
While the primary device will be an iPhone, the technology could extend to other devices over time, according to the patent, such as an iPad, Apple Watch, eyeglasses, an HMD, a television, an automobile, and more, notes the report.
