Apple’s Bold Leap in Display Technology: 90Hz Refresh Rate Coming to iPad Air, iMac, and More

By Sandy Verma On Nov 5, 2024

In a surprising turn, Apple appears to be pushing the envelope with a display technology overhaul that could make its way to the iPad Air, the 24-inch iMac, and even the Studio Display, as reported by the Upgrade podcast hosts, Mike Hurley and Jason Snell (via 9to5Mac). With whispers of 90Hz refresh rates and beyond, Apple’s move signals a potential wave of display innovations aimed at enhancing the user experience across its standard devices.

A Major Refresh for the iPad Air

Currently, Apple’s iPad, iPad Mini, and iPad Air models are equipped with 60Hz LCD screens, while only the iPad Pro lineup boasts the smooth 120Hz ProMotion display. But if these new reports hold, the next-gen iPad Air could break free from its 60Hz limit and feature an upgraded 90Hz refresh rate—offering smoother scrolling, more fluid animations, and an experience previously reserved for Apple’s premium models. Combined with the rumored M3 chip, this would mark a major leap forward for Apple’s versatile iPad Air, making it an even more compelling choice for users who crave performance without stepping into the “Pro” tier.

Expanding Display Innovations Beyond iPad Air

Interestingly, the iPad Air’s potential 90Hz display is only the beginning. The anonymous source claims that Apple is also “working on expanding it to other models or products,” potentially introducing the high-refresh technology to the 24-inch iMac and Studio Display. For years, Apple has kept its high refresh rates to its “Pro” products, but if these updates come through, Apple’s mainstay devices could soon offer buttery-smooth visuals that rival the finest displays on the market.

The move would also help Apple bring its non-pro devices closer in line with what other tech giants are offering, ensuring that users don’t feel they have to upgrade to the Pro lineup for a premium experience. If Apple indeed extends this technology to products like the iMac, it could transform everything from design workflows to entertainment, offering a next-level visual experience across a wider spectrum of Apple devices.

iPhone 17 Series: Could 120Hz Become Standard?

Apple’s display upgrades might not stop at the iPad Air and iMac. Rumors suggest that the tech giant could also finally bring 120Hz refresh rates to the upcoming iPhone 17 series, including the base model and a possible “Air” or “Slim” version. This would be a significant move, given that competitors already offer 120Hz screens in lower-priced models, providing smoother gaming, faster scrolling, and an overall more refined experience. If Apple adopts this technology for its standard iPhone models, it would not only narrow the gap with other brands but bring a new level of sophistication to the everyday iPhone.

A Move Towards Democratizing Display Technology

While Apple has traditionally restricted its most advanced display technology to its high-end devices, this possible expansion into its mid-tier offerings suggests the company is pivoting towards democratizing its innovations. In doing so, Apple could bring an extraordinary level of quality and responsiveness to users across various budget ranges, aligning with the industry’s shift towards high refresh rates as the new standard.

A Glimpse of the Future?

Apple’s moves are closely guarded secrets, and these rumors are yet to be confirmed by the company itself. Given that Apple only recently launched the M2 iPad Air, some are skeptical about how soon we’ll see a refreshed model with 90Hz. Yet, the ongoing leaks and the level of detail surfacing about Apple’s ambitions to upgrade its display technology hint at a not-so-distant future where high-refresh-rate screens are no longer limited to Pro models.

In a market where expectations are high and Apple remains one of the few companies holding back 120Hz displays for premium devices, a shift in strategy could signal an exciting era for Apple enthusiasts. If these reports come to fruition, Apple will likely set a new standard for what “standard” means—ushering in a new age of smooth, vibrant, and dynamic displays that enhance every interaction.