Apple may be planning to introduce 90Hz refresh rate displays to the iPad Air and other devices, according to recent rumors. This potential upgrade could bring smoother scrolling and improved responsiveness to Apple’s mid-range tablet lineup.
The 90Hz Display Rumor
In late 2024, an anonymous source shared information with the Upgrade podcast suggesting that Apple is developing a new “liquid motion” LCD panel with a 90Hz refresh rate. This display technology is reportedly destined first for the next-generation iPad Air, expected to launch in early 2025.
The source claimed Apple is also exploring bringing the 90Hz panels to other products like the 24-inch iMac and Studio Display. However, the timeline for those potential upgrades remains unclear.
What 90Hz Means for Users
A 90Hz refresh rate sits between the standard 60Hz found on most devices and the 120Hz ProMotion displays on iPad Pro models. Here’s what this upgrade could mean:
- Smoother scrolling and animations
- More responsive touch input
- Reduced motion blur
- Improved gaming experiences
While not as fluid as 120Hz, the jump from 60Hz to 90Hz would likely be noticeable to many users, especially when scrolling through content or playing games.
The Current iPad Air Display
The 2024 iPad Air models feature 60Hz LCD displays that Apple calls Liquid Retina. These screens offer:
- 11-inch (2360 x 1640) and 13-inch (2732 x 2048) options
- P3 wide color gamut
- True Tone technology
- 500 nits brightness (11-inch) / 600 nits (13-inch)
A 90Hz refresh rate would be a significant upgrade to this already capable display technology.
Potential iPad Air M3 Upgrade
Rumors suggest the next iPad Air refresh could arrive in early 2025, featuring:
- Apple’s M3 chip for improved performance
- The rumored 90Hz display
- Possible Wi-Fi 7 support
- A redesigned Magic Keyboard accessory
While Apple hasn’t confirmed any of these upgrades, the combination of a faster chip and smoother display could make for a compelling update to the iPad Air line.
Challenges of 90Hz Implementation
Introducing 90Hz displays across multiple product lines presents some challenges for Apple:
- Battery life: Higher refresh rates can impact battery life, especially on mobile devices like the iPad Air.
- Cost: 90Hz panels may be more expensive to produce than 60Hz displays.
- Product differentiation: Apple needs to maintain clear distinctions between the iPad Air and iPad Pro lines.
The Broader Display Technology Landscape
Apple’s potential move to 90Hz displays comes as other manufacturers push even higher refresh rates:
- Many Android phones and tablets offer 120Hz or even 144Hz displays
- Gaming monitors commonly feature refresh rates of 144Hz, 240Hz, or higher
By adopting 90Hz technology, Apple could bridge the gap between its standard and pro-level devices while still maintaining product segmentation.
What This Means for Apple’s Display Strategy
If the rumors prove true, a 90Hz iPad Air could signal a shift in Apple’s approach to displays across its product lineup:
- Gradual adoption of higher refresh rates in mid-range devices
- Potential for 90Hz to become the new baseline for Apple displays
- Increased pressure to further improve ProMotion technology on high-end devices
Looking Ahead: OLED on the Horizon?
While 90Hz LCD panels would be a welcome upgrade, Apple is also reportedly working on bringing OLED technology to the iPad Air line. However, OLED iPad Air models aren’t expected until 2027 at the earliest.
The potential introduction of 90Hz displays to the iPad Air and other Apple devices represents an exciting step forward in screen technology. While we’ll have to wait for official announcements to confirm these rumors, the prospect of smoother, more responsive displays across Apple’s lineup is certainly something to look forward to in the coming years.