On the new iPhone 16 Pro and Pro Max, the average screen refresh rate is limited to 80Hz instead of the promised 120Hz. According to leaker Ice Universe, iOS 18 is capping the refresh rate at 80Hz for most interactions on iPhone 16 Pro models. A video posted by the leaker shows the issue, showing the refresh rate counter rarely reaching 120Hz during scrolling.
Apple has not officially commented on the issue; some speculate that the refresh rate limitation may be an attempt to improve battery life. However, many users argue that throttling the refresh rate should be an option rather than a default, especially considering the premium price of the Pro models.
Some users have reported that the refresh rate behavior is inconsistent. One user noted,
If the screen stays still, it shows at 60Hz. Normal swipes can go up to 120Hz. But if you swipe really hard, it drops to 80Hz.
Honestly, if this is the case, then I don’t mind having an 80Hz refresh rate, as it won’t matter to me, but it might matter to some, or many, who have paid thousands of dollars for this and many other features. What is your take on it, and what is your take on Apple’s tactics? Do you think it is fair for a customer?
Hopefully, Apple will fix it as soon as possible in the next update.