Apple’s iOS 18, released last week, has brought several changes to the iPhone experience, but one update has sparked controversy among users. New video evidence reveals that iOS 18 limits the refresh rate of iPhones to 80Hz during certain tasks, with many users reporting that their devices rarely hit the default 120Hz refresh rate. This finding has raised questions about user transparency and the potential impact on performance.
ProMotion Technology: A Key Feature Introduced with iPhone 13 Pro
Apple first introduced ProMotion technology with the launch of the iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 13 Pro Max, allowing for a 120Hz display refresh rate. This high refresh rate was designed to deliver smooth scrolling, swiping, and browsing experiences across multiple applications. Since its release, users have appreciated the fluidity of animations and interactions, making it a standout feature in Apple’s flagship models.
iOS 18 Restricts Refresh Rate to 80Hz, Tipster Provides Evidence
With the release of iOS 18, users expected enhancements and bug fixes, but some unexpected changes went unnoticed until a well-known tipster, Ice Universe, provided video proof showing that iOS 18 limits an iPhone’s refresh rate to 80Hz. This video, posted on the social media platform X, reveals that during rapid scrolling, the iPhone’s display rarely exceeds 80Hz, a significant downgrade from the previous 120Hz experience.
Why Apple May Have Introduced the 80Hz Limitation in iOS 18
Although Apple has not officially acknowledged this change, it is speculated that the refresh rate limitation could be a battery-saving measure. By reducing the refresh rate to 80Hz during certain tasks, Apple may aim to extend battery life for users. However, this alteration was introduced without any formal communication, leaving users unaware of this performance adjustment.
Tipster Warns Users Not to Be Deceived by Smooth Animations
Ice Universe cautioned iPhone users not to be misled by the fluidity of animations introduced in iOS 18, as the software limits the refresh rate during scrolling. While the display still provides smooth animations, it fails to deliver the 120Hz refresh rate that users expect, especially on premium models like the iPhone 16.
Video Evidence of the Refresh Rate Cap in Action
The video evidence provided by Ice Universe features a refresh rate counter, likely obtained through a third-party application, which tracks the display’s refresh rate in real-time. In the video, the iPhone’s refresh rate remains predominantly at 80Hz, even during rapid scrolling, with only brief moments when the display touches 120Hz.
User Reactions: Performance Trade-offs vs. Battery Life
While some users may prioritize battery life over performance, the lack of transparency from Apple has sparked frustration among iOS 18 users. Many believe that users should be given the option to toggle this setting on or off, allowing them to choose between longer battery life or a smoother display experience.
Not the First Time Apple Has Limited Performance for Battery Efficiency
This is not the first instance where Apple has reportedly limited performance in favor of battery efficiency. Earlier reports indicated that Geekbench 6 scores for iPhones running iOS 18 were lower than expected, as the performance cores take slightly longer to reach turbo frequencies. This delay, aimed at preserving battery health, again raised questions about Apple’s transparency with its user base.
Should iPhone Users Be Concerned About the iOS 18 Update?
While the refresh rate limitation is not the only battery-saving measure introduced with iOS 18, it has led to considerable concerns among iPhone 13 Pro and iPhone 16 users. For those who value performance and display smoothness, this change may feel like a significant downgrade. On the other hand, users who prioritize battery life may not notice much difference in day-to-day usage.
How to Check Your iPhone’s Refresh Rate on iOS 18
For users curious to see if their iPhone is affected by this 80Hz refresh rate cap, third-party apps are available to monitor the display’s refresh rate in real-time. These apps provide insight into how frequently the display hits 120Hz and whether the iOS 18 update has affected their device’s performance.
Apple’s History of Silent Performance Adjustments
Apple has a history of introducing silent performance adjustments to preserve battery life, often without informing users. This practice has led to backlash, particularly when it affects flagship features like ProMotion. In the past, users have expressed frustration over performance throttling, and the iOS 18 refresh rate limitation has only added to these concerns.
What Users Can Expect from Future iOS Updates
It remains unclear if Apple will address this refresh rate issue in future iOS 18 updates. As more users report similar behavior on their iPhones, Apple may provide an official statement or a software fix that allows users to manually adjust their device’s refresh rate settings. Until then, users are encouraged to monitor their iPhone’s performance and provide feedback.
Conclusion: The iOS 18 Refresh Rate Limitation Raises Transparency Concerns
The iOS 18 update has introduced several changes, with the most notable being the reduction of the iPhone’s refresh rate to 80Hz. While Apple’s intentions may be rooted in preserving battery life, the lack of user communication has raised concerns about transparency. As iPhone users continue to discover and report these performance changes, it remains to be seen how Apple will respond and whether the company will allow users more control over their device’s performance settings.
Source: Ice Universe
