Apple may be planning a significant update to its display technology, which could affect multiple products, including the iMac and Studio Display. According to a recent rumour, Apple could introduce a 90Hz refresh rate to its 24-inch iMac and Studio Display models in 2025, offering a smoother viewing experience. The rumour, shared on the Upgrade podcast hosted by Myke Hurley and Jason Snell, suggests Apple's refresh rate jump would be a significant improvement for its desktop devices.
The same source also claimed that Apple's upcoming M3 iPad Air would be the first device to receive the enhanced display, featuring a new 90Hz liquid panel. This would be a noticeable improvement from the current 60Hz standard display technology found in existing iPad Airs, iMacs, and Studio Display models. Here's a closer look at what this upgrade could mean for Apple's product line.
90Hz display may come to Apple's next desktop line-up
The possible introduction of a 90Hz refresh rate for Apple's desktop products marks a potential upgrade for Apple's display lineup. Apple's Studio Display and iMac models currently feature 60Hz displays, which deliver clear, sharp visuals but lack the higher refresh rates that many users now expect. If Apple's plan goes ahead, the 24-inch iMac and Studio Display could see refresh rates jump from 60Hz to 90Hz, creating smoother visuals and more responsive performance for users.
The rumour has gained attention, with Hurley and Snell explaining that the source described Apple's vision to extend the new 90Hz display panel beyond the M3 iPad Air to other Apple products, including the iMac and Studio Display. “Apple is working on a higher refresh rate LCD with a new liquid motion panel fixed at around 90Hz,” the source reportedly shared, indicating that Apple could be working to implement this across a broader range of products.
The Studio Display, a premium monitor, was released in March 2022 and still needs to be updated. Given its role as Apple's professional-grade monitor, introducing a higher refresh rate could make it even more appealing to designers, video editors, and creative professionals. However, it's important to note that no other independent verification of this rumour exists.
Higher refresh rate for the iPad Air could lead the way
Apple's rumoured plan to bring a 90Hz refresh rate to the M3 iPad Air might set the standard for the company's future product line. While the iPad Pro models already feature Apple's ProMotion technology, which supports refresh rates up to 120Hz, this would be the first time the iPad Air receives a refresh rate boost. Analysts believe this upgrade could offer a better experience for those who use the iPad Air for tasks that demand smoother visuals, such as gaming, drawing, or video editing.
Industry analyst Ross Young has previously linked the 120Hz ProMotion display to the upcoming iPhone 17 series, which suggests Apple is looking at bringing higher refresh rates to a broader range of devices. However, no specific claims have linked Apple's other products to the 90Hz display technology until this recent rumour surfaced.
Bloomberg's sources indicate the M3 iPad Air will likely be launched in early 2025, setting a potential release window for the new display tech across other Apple devices. According to Young, Apple had plans to develop a 120Hz Studio Display with mini-LED backlighting but scrapped the project in 2023, which could mean the 90Hz upgrade is the company's latest approach to improving its display offerings without the higher costs of ProMotion technology.
Studio Display remains a top choice but lacks recent updates
Apple's Studio Display, priced starting at US$1,600, is known for its crisp and vibrant visuals, but it has yet to receive an update since its launch in early 2022. For those who use Apple's Studio Display in creative or design work, a 90Hz refresh rate could bring a much-needed boost, offering more fluid graphics and reducing eye strain, especially in fast-moving applications.
While this rumour should be taken cautiously, it highlights Apple's interest in exploring upgrades to its core displays. With the increasing demand for high-performance monitors, it would be logical for Apple to refresh its line with new display technology, providing a better user experience for customers across various professions.
For now, fans of Apple's desktop devices must wait to see if these reports materialise. If Apple implements the upgrade, it could redefine the viewing experience for iMac and Studio Display users and set a new benchmark for Apple's technology in the future.
