Does the iPhone 15 Have an Always-On Display?

Yes, the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max models feature an always-on display. However, the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus models do not have this functionality. This feature leverages the LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) display technology found in the Pro models, enabling them to dynamically adjust their refresh rate down to as low as 1Hz, significantly reducing power consumption when the display is in its always-on state.

Understanding the Always-On Display on iPhone

The always-on display isn’t just about showing the time; it’s a sophisticated implementation designed for utility and convenience. Apple has finely tuned the feature to present relevant information at a glance while minimizing battery drain.

How it Works

The LTPO technology allows the Pro models to dim the lock screen significantly while still displaying key information like the time, widgets, and Live Activities. The display dynamically adjusts its refresh rate based on the content being displayed. When the screen is inactive, the refresh rate drops to 1Hz, drastically reducing power consumption compared to a standard display that constantly refreshes at a higher rate. This is crucial for making an always-on display practical and not a significant drain on the battery.

Key Benefits

• At-a-Glance Information: Quickly check the time, see upcoming calendar events, track your activity rings, and monitor Live Activities without fully waking the phone.
• Customization: The always-on display is customizable, allowing you to choose which widgets and information are displayed. You can also opt to dim the wallpaper or turn it off completely for a more minimalist look.
• Battery Optimization: The LTPO display technology and intelligent software management work together to minimize the impact on battery life.
• Seamless Integration: The always-on display seamlessly integrates with other iPhone features, such as Raise to Wake and Tap to Wake, providing a fluid and intuitive user experience.

iPhone 15: A Breakdown of Models and Display Features

Understanding the differences between the iPhone 15 models is key to understanding the always-on display feature.

iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus

These models feature the Super Retina XDR display, which is bright and vibrant. However, they lack the LTPO technology required for an always-on display. Therefore, the screen will turn off completely when the phone is idle. They do benefit from the Dynamic Island, inherited from the iPhone 14 Pro models.

iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max

These models boast the Super Retina XDR display with ProMotion, which includes LTPO technology. This is what enables the always-on display functionality. In addition to the always-on display, ProMotion allows for adaptive refresh rates up to 120Hz, providing a smoother and more responsive user experience during active use. They also feature enhanced brightness and the advanced features expected from Apple’s flagship devices.

Why is Always-On Display Limited to the Pro Models?

The decision to limit the always-on display to the Pro models is likely driven by a combination of factors:

• Technology Differentiation: Apple often reserves certain advanced features for its Pro models to differentiate them from the standard models and justify the higher price point.
• LTPO Display Cost: LTPO displays are more expensive to manufacture than standard OLED displays.
• Battery Life Management: The always-on display, even with LTPO technology, requires careful power management. Apple likely focused its optimization efforts on the Pro models.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are some frequently asked questions about the always-on display on the iPhone 15:

1. Can I disable the always-on display on my iPhone 15 Pro or iPhone 15 Pro Max?

Yes, you can disable the always-on display. Go to Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display and toggle the feature off.

2. How much battery does the always-on display consume?

The battery consumption varies depending on usage patterns and settings. However, Apple has optimized the feature to minimize battery drain. You can expect a slightly shorter battery life with the always-on display enabled compared to when it is disabled.

3. Does the always-on display show notifications?

Yes, it shows notifications, but they are displayed discreetly to conserve battery and maintain privacy.

4. Can I customize what’s shown on the always-on display?

Yes, you can customize which widgets, Live Activities, and whether or not the wallpaper is shown on the always-on display. These options are in Settings > Display & Brightness > Always On Display.

5. Does the always-on display turn off in certain situations?

Yes, the always-on display will automatically turn off when the iPhone is in your pocket or bag, when Sleep Focus is enabled, when Low Power Mode is turned on, when you’re wearing an Apple Watch and have moved a certain distance away from your iPhone, or when CarPlay is in use.

6. Is the always-on display the same as the standby mode introduced in iOS 17?

No, the always-on display and standby mode are distinct features. The always-on display shows information on the lock screen while the phone is idle and face down; Standby Mode is a feature available across all models. Standby mode activates when the iPhone is placed on its side while charging, displaying widgets, photos, and other information in a landscape orientation.

7. Will future iPhone models have always-on displays?

It is highly likely that future iPhone Pro models will continue to feature always-on displays. Whether Apple will expand this feature to standard iPhone models remains to be seen and will likely depend on advancements in display technology and battery optimization.

8. What is LTPO display technology, and why is it important for always-on displays?

LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) display technology allows the display to dynamically adjust its refresh rate, down to as low as 1Hz. This is crucial for always-on displays because it significantly reduces power consumption when the screen is in its idle state. Without LTPO, an always-on display would drain the battery much faster.

9. Does the iPhone 15 Pro’s always-on display burn-in the screen?

Apple has implemented measures to prevent screen burn-in, such as subtly shifting the pixels periodically. Screen burn-in is less of a concern with modern OLED displays than it was in the past.

10. Is the brightness of the always-on display adjustable?

The brightness of the always-on display is automatically adjusted based on ambient lighting conditions. There is no manual setting to directly control its brightness.

11. Can I schedule the always-on display to turn off at certain times?

No, there is no direct scheduling feature for the always-on display. However, it will automatically turn off when Sleep Focus is enabled, which you can schedule.

12. How do I update my iPhone to ensure the always-on display works correctly?

Ensure your iPhone is running the latest version of iOS. Go to Settings > General > Software Update to check for and install any available updates. The always-on display functionality is directly tied to the operating system, so keeping it up-to-date is essential.

In conclusion, while the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 15 Pro Max offer the convenience of an always-on display, the standard iPhone 15 and iPhone 15 Plus do not. This distinction underscores the technological differences between the Pro and non-Pro models and Apple’s strategy of reserving certain features for its flagship devices. If having an always-on display is a priority for you, you’ll need to opt for one of the Pro models.