In 2025, Apple is expected to introduce base iPhone models with larger displays, a non-standard aspect ratio, and an adaptive refresh rate. This outlook comes from industry analyst Ross Young, who serves as CEO of Display Supply Chain Consultants, as reported by MacRumors. The forecast underscores a broader push toward screens that offer more real estate for apps and media while balancing usability and power efficiency.
Specifically, the base iPhone 17 and iPhone 17 Plus are anticipated to measure 6.27 inches and 6.86 inches respectively. These sizes represent a modest increase over the 6.12-inch iPhone 16 and the 6.69-inch iPhone 16 Plus, translating to roughly a 2.5% step up in diagonal length. Alongside the size bump, the aspect ratio is forecast to shift from the current 19.5:9 to a slightly wider 19.6:9, which can influence how content fills the display whether you are browsing, gaming, or watching video. The change aims to optimize how apps scale and how immersive the viewing experience feels on everyday use in North American markets and beyond, while keeping overall device dimensions manageable for one-handed use by a broad user base. (MacRumors; Display Supply Chain Consultants)
Another key element in the 2025 display strategy is the adoption of LTPO substrates in base models. This technology supports ProMotion style adaptive refresh rates, enabling the screen to refresh anywhere from 1 Hz up to 120 Hz depending on the task at hand. The result is smoother scrolling and more responsive visuals during fast-paced gaming or dynamic user interfaces, without unnecessarily draining battery life during static or idle moments. In practical terms, users in Canada and the United States may notice crisper motion in video streams, more fluid animations in apps, and longer battery endurance during everyday tasks. (MacRumors; Display Supply Chain Consultants)
The rationale behind Young’s detailed forecast rests on the expectation that the display specifications for the iPhone 17 series will echo the screen technologies rolled out to the iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max in 2024. If the trend holds, components and expertise that initially served the Pro lines will migrate to the standard models the following year, a pattern commonly observed in Apple’s product cadence. Industry participants and Apple partners have already begun to surface early information about these forthcoming devices, indicating a measured rollout that aligns with supply chain realities and consumer demand in North America. This projected continuity helps explain why the broader ecosystem — from accessory makers to app developers — is tuning its plans for the new display characteristics ahead of a potential launch window. (MacRumors; Display Supply Chain Consultants)
Historically, shifts in display size and technology influence how people interact with the iPhone in day-to-day life. For instance, a larger screen can improve readability for emails, maps, and documents, while a slightly altered aspect ratio may affect how content fills video players and social apps. The LTPO and ProMotion-like capabilities promise smoother visuals and more responsive touch experiences without imposing noticeable penalties on battery life for most typical use scenarios. In markets like Canada and the United States, where high-refresh content and gaming are common, these improvements could translate into meaningful benefits for a broad audience. Still, it is wise to temper expectations until Apple confirms exact specifications and timing, since supply chain dynamics and component sourcing play a decisive role in final product details. (MacRumors; Display Supply Chain Consultants)