iPhone 17 Display Leak Hints at Major Upgrades for the Standard Model
The iPhone 17 is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated smartphone launches of 2025. While speculation continues to swirl around a potential ultra-slim variant—possibly dubbed the “Air” model—it’s the standard iPhone 17 that’s capturing widespread interest. Despite Apple reserving its most cutting-edge features for the Pro models, the regular iPhone remains the go-to choice for most users. So, when leaks surface about upgrades to the base model’s display, they naturally draw a lot of attention.
According to a tip from display industry analyst Ross Young, Apple is planning notable enhancements to the iPhone 17’s screen that could finally bring it closer in quality to competitors from Samsung and OnePlus. The design is expected to maintain the signature pill-shaped cutout that houses the Face ID system, but the OLED panel itself will see significant improvements.
Among the anticipated upgrades are a larger display size and a higher refresh rate—features long demanded by users and commonly found on rival devices. If these changes materialize, the iPhone 17 could represent a substantial leap forward for Apple’s standard iPhone lineup
iPhone 17 to get a bigger display
The iPhone 17’s display size is one area that needs improvement. Beginning with the iPhone XR, the standard screen size for the basic iPhone has been 6.1 inches for years. Because of its small size, the regular iPhone has become more popular among consumers looking for a little iPhone. A number of Android-based manufacturers have recently imitated this trend. Beware, OnePlus 13s.
Apple, however, has now made the decision to increase the screen size from 6.1 to 6.3 inches, making it as huge as the rumored display size of the iPhone 17 Pro. The normal iPhone will probably get larger due to the screen size increase, which could also affect the aspect ratios of the apps.
Regarding the remainder of the lineup, the top-tier iPhone 17 Pro Max is anticipated to receive a 6.9-inch display, while the rumored iPhone 17 Air (which will replace the iPhone 16 Plus) would have a 6.5-inch display.
Smoother experience with a high refresh rate
The iPhone 17 is rumored to include a 120Hz refresh rate OLED panel instead of the 60Hz refresh rate of the iPhone 16, in addition to a larger display. Similar to the iPhone 16 Pro’s 120Hz ProMotion display, the iPhone 17’s scrolling and animations will appear smoother with a higher refresh rate.
However, take into account Apple’s desperate attempts to defend the iPhone 17 Pro’s higher pricing, which may have an impact on the panel’s actual quality. According to industry standards supported by competitors such as Samsung and OnePlus, the iPhone 17’s 120Hz display might not include the iPhone 17 Pro’s variable refresh rate technology, making it less energy-efficient.