With the launch of Android 15, Google has introduced a major update for Android displays: true variable refresh rate (VRR) support. This new adaptive refresh rate (ARR) feature allows screens to change their refresh rates based on content, aiming to save power and improve user experience.
Understanding the Current State of LTPO and Restricted VRR on Android Devices
Until now, Android devices with LTPO (Low-Temperature Polycrystalline Oxide) panels, like the 8T LTPO displays, could only shift between a set of fixed refresh rates, such as 1Hz, 10Hz, 30Hz, 60Hz, and 120Hz. Manufacturers preset these rates based on content type, meaning displays couldn’t smoothly transition between these levels.
This limited VRR ability stems from Android’s older software framework, which only supported fixed display modes before Android 15.
In contrast, VRR technology on PCs lets screens sync refresh rates with frame rates in real time, creating smoother transitions and better responsiveness, especially during gaming. Android devices, however, have traditionally lacked this flexibility.
Google’s Adaptive Refresh Rate Implementation in Android 15
Android 15 changes this by adding true ARR (Adaptive Refresh Rate) support, letting screens dynamically adjust refresh rates within a single display mode.
This improvement is possible thanks to updates in the Hardware Composer (HWC) hardware abstraction layer, with HWC HAL version 3. Now, the system can optimize refresh rates based on content type, reducing “jank” or stuttering that often appeared when switching display modes in earlier Android versions.
What about Hardware compatibility?
However, ARR will only work on devices with compatible hardware, specifically those supporting HWC HAL version 3. This feature will be available on some newer devices, such as those powered by Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Elite processor. Older devices, even if they upgrade to Android 15, might not support ARR due to hardware limitations.
It’s important to note that this ARR feature isn’t quite like the real-time synchronization seen on PCs. It can only match refresh rates that divide evenly into the panel’s tearing effect, meaning it may not offer the same smoothness for gaming.
While this update is a step toward more efficient and dynamic displays on Android, its adoption will depend on hardware compatibility and manufacturers’ willingness to implement HWC HAL version 3. This means the full benefits of VRR may only reach newer flagship models. However, Google’s true VRR functionality in Android 15 marks a promising development for Android’s display technology.
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