Apple may be planning to upgrade its entire iPhone 17 lineup with high-refresh rate OLED displays, according to a recent leak on Weibo spotted by MacRumors. This would mean that the base model iPhones would no longer be limited to 60Hz displays, bringing them on par with the premium "Pro" models. The rumor, which originated from Digital Chat Station, has a track record of accuracy, having previously leaked correct details about the iPhone 15 line's camera sensors and the display panel of the iPhone 12.

The leak is somewhat vague, only stating that the base iPhone 17 will feature a high refresh rate. However, it aligns with previous supply chain whispers that have been circulating in recent months. In February, MacRumors reported that Apple would be using the same LTPO panel tech, which enables the variable refresh rate "ProMotion" feature on the iPhone 16 Pro displays, for all of next year's phones. This was later corroborated by display supply chain analyst Ross Young in September.

If the rumor proves true, it would mark a significant shift in Apple's strategy for differentiating its iPhone lineup. Instead of using display tech as a key differentiator, Apple could focus on other features to stratify its models. For example, the iPhone 17 Pro Max could be set apart by its smaller Face ID sensor and Dynamic Island cutout, as well as 12GB of RAM for both sizes of iPhone 17 Pro, compared to 8GB for the standard and Slim models.

Other rumored features of the iPhone 17 lineup include 24MP front-facing cameras, replacing the current 12MP cameras, and the use of an Apple-designed Wi-Fi / Bluetooth chip for the first time. The next set of iPhones is also expected to introduce an iPhone 17 "Slim" model, which would replace the base model "Plus" iPhone. According to Ross Young, this new model would also feature ProMotion technology.

The implications of this rumor are significant, as it would bring a premium display feature to a wider range of Apple's customers. It also raises questions about how Apple will choose to differentiate its models going forward, and what other features it may prioritize to justify the higher prices of its Pro models. As the iPhone 17 lineup is expected to be released in 2025, fans of the tech giant will be eagerly waiting to see how these rumors play out.

With Apple's reputation for delivering high-quality displays, the potential upgrade to OLED screens across the entire iPhone 17 lineup is an exciting development for tech enthusiasts. As more information becomes available, it will be interesting to see how this change affects the overall iPhone ecosystem and Apple's position in the competitive smartphone market.