Apple may finally bring ProMotion to the standard iPhone after years of limiting the feature to its high-end models.
Will the Standard iPhone 17 Get 120Hz and a Bigger Display?
According to recent leaks and analyst predictions, Apple is expected to upgrade the standard iPhone 17 with a 120Hz ProMotion display and a larger 6.3-inch screen. This would mark a major shift in Apple’s product strategy, finally aligning the standard models closer to their Pro counterparts in terms of display technology.
Apple's Strategy: Closing the Gap Between Standard and Pro
Apple has long segmented its iPhone lineup with display differences.
Pro models have enjoyed the buttery-smooth 120Hz refresh rate since the iPhone 13 Pro, while standard models have remained at 60Hz. If the iPhone 17 indeed brings 120Hz to the base variant, it could signal a new era of feature parity between tiers.
A Display Size Boost: 6.1” to 6.3”
The current iPhone 15 and 16 standard models come with a 6.1-inch display.
Leaks suggest the iPhone 17 will push this to 6.3 inches. This subtle increase could improve usability without making the device feel oversized. It would also better accommodate the higher refresh rate by delivering more immersive visuals.
Why 120Hz Matters to Everyday Users
The 120Hz refresh rate means smoother scrolling, more responsive touch input, and better gaming performance.
Even outside of gaming, tasks like swiping through social media or navigating between apps become noticeably more fluid. For users upgrading from a 60Hz phone, the difference is instantly apparent.
Expected Timeline and Models Affected
Rumors point to the iPhone 17 lineup launching in September 2025, continuing Apple's annual release cycle.
The upgrade may apply only to the iPhone 17 and 17 Plus, while the Pro models may introduce new display technologies like micro-lens OLED to further differentiate themselves.
Spec Comparison: iPhone 16 vs iPhone 17 (Expected)
| Feature | iPhone 16 (Standard) | iPhone 17 (Standard) (Expected) |
|---|---|---|
| Display Size | 6.1 inches | 6.3 inches |
| Refresh Rate | 60Hz | 120Hz ProMotion |
| Notch/Camera Design | Dynamic Island | Pill-shaped cutout (rumored) |
| Chipset | A17 or A18 | A18 or A19 |
Market Impact: Pressure on Android Competitors
With Apple offering 120Hz on the base model, Android rivals in the midrange space may feel the heat.
Currently, many mid-tier Android phones already offer high refresh rates, but Apple’s brand power could shift expectations across the industry.
Final Thoughts: A Long-Awaited Upgrade?
If these rumors hold true, the iPhone 17 standard model will finally catch up to what tech-savvy consumers have demanded for years.
Smoother displays, better visuals, and a larger screen—without having to pay the Pro premium—will likely be a big draw. Whether this will push more users to upgrade remains to be seen, but the buzz is already growing.