IPhone May 13 features Apple Watch-inspired always-on display

Following the successful launch of the iPhone 12 as a supercycle last year, Apple aims to make another “big splash” with its upcoming 2021 iPhones, which are expected to feature bigger batteries, smaller notches, improved performance and more advanced screens that may sport an always-on mode.

In the latest publication of his weekly Power On newsletter, Bloomberg Journalist Mark Gurman describes what customers can expect from this year’s iPhone. According to Gurman, in line with previously disclosed battery capacities, the new iPhones will feature larger batteries that can be used to power displays with a 120Hz refresh rate and possibly an Apple Watch-inspired always-on mode.

With recent Apple Watch models, the screen can stay on with lower brightness and variable refresh rate. This allows wearers to see their watch face at all times. Gurman says Apple could bring similar functionality to the iPhone‌ 2021, allowing customers to potentially see information like the time, date and their notifications at any time on their screen.

This would be made possible by LTPO displays which can efficiently power the screen at lower brightness at all times without significantly impacting battery life.

The LTPO OLED displays that are expected to be included in high-end iPhone 13 models would also allow the inclusion of a 120Hz refresh rate. Apple has long been rumored to be bringing its 120Hz ProMotion technology to its ‌iPhone‌, and despite widespread rumors that this is happening on the iPhone 12‌, Apple now seems determined to include it for the high-end models of the iPhone 13.

Beyond improved performance, more advanced screens, and beefed up camera capabilities, the dummy models in the upcoming iPhone 13 line reveal very little design change for the new iPhones. Last year, Apple reintroduced a flat-rimmed design for the iPhone‌, and the iPhone 13 will build on that design. However, the new iPhones will be slightly thicker and heavier to accommodate more advanced displays and larger batteries.