According to a new report from The Elec, Apple plans to incorporate the advanced LTPO3 panel technology introduced in the Apple Watch Series 10 into its upcoming iPhones. This shift is expected to enhance both power efficiency and display performance, ultimately leading to improved battery life and an overall better user experience.
The Apple Watch Series 10 showcases a notable redesign, featuring a slimmer profile and a slightly larger display. It utilizes LTPO3 OLED technology, which represents a significant upgrade over the LTPO2 displays found in the Apple Watch Series 9 and current iPhone 16 Pro models. The LTPO3 technology integrates an oxide layer into the Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Silicon (LTPS) thin-film transistor (TFT) design. This integration significantly reduces power consumption, especially at lower refresh rates, making the displays more efficient while enhancing their brightness and color accuracy.
The implications for future iPhones are substantial. With the introduction of LTPO3, users can expect a display that optimizes each pixel for better light emission, particularly at wider viewing angles. Notably, the Apple Watch Series 10 boasts a display that is up to 40% brighter than its predecessor when viewed from off-axis angles. Additionally, LTPO3 technology allows for faster refresh rates in Always-On display modes, improving usability without sacrificing battery life. For instance, while the previous generation’s refresh rate was limited to once per minute, LTPO3 allows for updates every second, making real-time information more accessible at a glance.
Industry insiders suggest that Samsung Display is preparing to supply Apple with the necessary LTPO3 panels for future iPhone models. However, it’s important to note that while the upcoming iPhone 17 series will feature LTPO2 displays across all models, the transition to LTPO3 is not expected until later iterations.
This gradual rollout follows Apple’s historical pattern of testing new display technologies in the Apple Watch before integrating them into the iPhone. Previous examples include the transition from LTPO1 in the Apple Watch Series 4 to the LTPO displays in the iPhone 13 Pro models, highlighting the tech giant’s strategic approach to innovation.
(via The Elec)
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