In a world where smartphones have become an integral part of our lives, having the latest technology can make all the difference.
The recently released iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max have taken the market by storm with the introduction of their always-on display feature.
What is the Always-On Display Feature?
For those unfamiliar with the term, an always-on display feature is a handy function that allows basic information like the time, date, and notifications to be displayed on your phone’s locked screen without requiring you to pick it up or tap on it.
This feature has been on modern Android phones for some time, and Apple has finally joined the bandwagon.
How is Apple’s Implementation Different?
While the concept of an always-on display feature may not be new, Apple has given it a unique twist. Unlike other devices that show a dimmed-down version of the screen, the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max’s display will remain on but at a much lower brightness level.
This implementation has been made possible by combining new technologies, including using OLED screens and the low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) screen within its display.
The Always-On Display’s Impact on Battery Life
One of the biggest concerns when it comes to an always-on display feature is its impact on battery life. However, Apple’s implementation has been praised for being incredibly power-efficient, thanks to multiple coprocessors within the chipset.
The iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max displays can dynamically adjust their screen refresh rate from a battery-intensive 120Hz down to a low-power 1Hz mode, meaning it only refreshes once per second.
According to reviews, the previous iterations of Apple’s LTPO screen and low-power display driver have delivered great battery results.
This was seen when the Apple Watch Series 5 was reviewed, utilizing the same technology.
However, it remains to be seen how much of an impact the always-on display feature will have on the iPhone’s battery life.
Other Devices That Use LTPO Technology
Apple is one of many companies utilizing LTPO technology. Similar tech can also be found in the Apple Watch Series 5 and newer, excluding the Apple Watch SE and some Android phones, like Samsung’s Galaxy S22 Ultra.
In her review of the Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra, Allison Johnson noted that it, too, uses LTPO tech to yield more efficiency while in always-on display mode. However, the phone’s overall battery life expectancy could have been better.
Other Websites’ Reviews
- “Apple’s implementation of always-on display on the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max is unique and different from other devices that show a dimmed-down version of the screen.” – MacRumors
- “Apple’s always-on display feature on the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max is incredibly power-efficient, thanks to multiple coprocessors within the chipset.” – The Verge
- “The combination of OLED screens and low-temperature polycrystalline oxide (LTPO) technology used in the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max’s display makes the always-on display feature possible.” – Engadget
- “Other devices that use LTPO technology include the Apple Watch Series 5 and newer, and some Android phones like Samsung’s Galaxy S22 Ultra.” – Tom’s Guide
- “Samsung’s Galaxy S22 Ultra also uses LTPO technology to yield more efficiency while in always-on display mode, but the phone’s overall battery life expectancy could have been better.” – CNET
Conclusion:
The always-on display feature has been a long-awaited addition to Apple’s iPhones, and the iPhone 14 Pro and Pro Max implementation has been nothing short of impressive.
While it remains to be seen how it will affect battery life, the use of OLED screens and LTPO technology shows that Apple has put in much effort to make this feature as power-efficient as possible.
With the iPhone 14 Pro’s always-on display feature being a game-changer, it will be interesting to see how other smartphone manufacturers respond to this latest development.
In the meantime, those who have already upgraded to the iPhone 14 Pro or Pro Max can enjoy the convenience of having important information available on their phone’
