A new rumor suggests that Apple is working on 90Hz display technology that may soon be incorporated into the next versions of the Studio Display, iPad Air, and 24-inch iMac. Currently, each of these devices features a 60Hz refresh rate. The development of this new display technology was reportedly shared by an anonymous source who reached out to the Upgrade podcast, hosted by Myke Hurley and Jason Snell. The source claims that Apple’s new “liquid motion” LCD panel will provide a smoother visual experience by increasing the refresh rate to around 90Hz, a noticeable improvement for users who spend hours on their Apple devices.
Enhanced Display Performance for Apple’s Studio Display
If Apple implements a 90Hz refresh rate in the Studio Display, it would mark the first major hardware upgrade since the display’s initial release in March 2022. Despite ongoing rumors about potential refreshes, including possible upgrades with mini-LED technology and ProMotion support, the Studio Display has yet to receive an official update. As a result, users and tech enthusiasts have eagerly awaited news of a next-generation model with enhanced display features.
This potential enhancement could make the Studio Display even more competitive, especially among creative professionals who rely on high-performance screens for tasks like photo and video editing. A higher refresh rate of 90Hz could deliver smoother graphics, reducing motion blur and enhancing overall visual clarity, which would be valuable for anyone using the display for design or multimedia projects.
What About ProMotion?
Apple’s high-end Pro Display XDR, which launched in 2019, remains the company’s most advanced standalone monitor. However, it has also remained unchanged since its release. Many Apple fans have anticipated that the next iteration of the Studio Display might incorporate ProMotion technology, which allows refresh rates of up to 120Hz. In fact, according to display analyst Ross Young, Apple had previously considered a 27-inch monitor with mini-LED backlighting and ProMotion support. Unfortunately, Young reported in April 2023 that Apple ultimately decided to shelve this project.
Here’s a summary of Apple’s display features and how a 90Hz refresh rate could change things:
- Studio Display: Currently features a 27-inch 5K LCD panel, P3 wide color support, 600 nits brightness, and 60Hz refresh rate.
- Pro Display XDR: Features advanced HDR capabilities, up to 1,600 nits peak brightness, 6K resolution, and also uses a 60Hz refresh rate.
If a 90Hz refresh rate were introduced to the Studio Display, it would sit somewhere between the traditional 60Hz displays and the potential 120Hz ProMotion technology, providing an intermediate step toward even more fluid visuals.
According to the anonymous source, Apple’s 90Hz display technology is expected to debut with the next-generation M3 iPad Air, likely arriving in early 2025. The iPad Air has seen increasing popularity among users looking for a powerful, lightweight tablet, so this display enhancement could boost its appeal even further. Following the iPad Air, Apple is expected to incorporate this technology into the 24-inch iMac, although it may not appear in this model until late 2025 or beyond. The latest 24-inch iMac, now featuring Apple’s M4 chip, would be well-positioned to benefit from a smoother display, especially for users who appreciate immersive visuals.
Potential Benefits of a 90Hz Refresh Rate Across Devices
A 90Hz refresh rate would provide notable benefits across different Apple products:
- Smoother Motion: Higher refresh rates allow for smoother motion, which is ideal for watching videos, gaming, or performing design work.
- Better Visual Consistency: For Apple users who already experience higher refresh rates on devices like the iPad Pro or iPhone Pro models, a 90Hz refresh rate could create a more consistent experience across Apple’s ecosystem.
- Improved User Experience for Creative Tasks: Those working in creative fields, such as graphic design or video editing, could benefit from reduced motion blur and improved visual fidelity.
The Current Landscape for Apple’s Displays
Apple’s current Studio Display starts at $1,599 and features a 27-inch 5K LCD panel with 60Hz refresh rate, P3 wide color gamut, and up to 600 nits of brightness. While this display is still highly regarded, a bump to 90Hz could make it even more appealing. Likewise, Apple’s iPad Air and 24-inch iMac, both popular models for a wide range of users, could attract new attention with this potential upgrade.
For those considering a new display or device, here are the current features of Apple’s displays:
- Studio Display: 27-inch 5K resolution, 60Hz refresh rate, 600 nits brightness
- Pro Display XDR: 6K resolution, up to 1,600 nits peak brightness, 60Hz refresh rate
If Apple is indeed preparing a 90Hz display for the Studio Display, iPad Air, and 24-inch iMac, it may mark the start of a wider trend to introduce smoother visuals across its product line. With the continued evolution of display technology, Apple appears to be keeping pace with consumer demands for improved visual experiences.
As the market for high-performance displays grows, Apple’s rumored updates could position it to compete even more effectively in this space. Keep an eye out for further updates, as these new features may just be the beginning of Apple’s efforts to advance its display technology in 2025 and beyond.
