If you’re one of the lucky owners of the iPhone 15 Pro Max, you might have noticed something strange on your screen. Maybe you see faint traces of your keyboard, your home screen wallpaper, your app icons, or other images that shouldn’t be there. Maybe they’re more noticeable when you switch to a different app or a plain background. Maybe they’re annoying you so much that you’re wondering if you made a mistake buying the most expensive iPhone model ever.
Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Many users of the iPhone 15 Pro Max have been reporting cases of OLED burn-in on their screens. This issue, also known as ghosting, is a longstanding display problem where remnants of the user interface remain on-screen even after you’ve navigated away. In this case, faded pixels of keyboards, home screen wallpapers, app icons, and other commonly used visuals remain static even when they shouldn’t be.
This permanent discoloration has been prevalent on all OLED displays, not just the ones on iPhones, and is primarily caused by leaving a fixed image for an extended period of time. However, unless every user has been leaving their iPhone 15 Pro Max on a static image for hours long, the reports of screen burn-in should not be as common as they’ve been. This points to a quality control problem with Apple’s newest, most expensive iPhone model.
However, Apple has been quick to respond, indicating that the issues users are currently experiencing isn’t related to OLED burn-in, but instead an iOS 17 software bug causing “display image persistence”. Apple has since indicated that the bug will be addressed in a near future iOS 17.1 update.
If you’ve experienced OLED burn-in on your iPhone 15 Pro Max, the best advice, for now, is to visit a local Apple Store and have a technician service it. Otherwise, be cautious of leaving an image on-screen for too long.
In this article, we’ll explain what OLED burn-in is, how to prevent it, how to fix it if you have it, and what to expect from Apple’s service and warranty policy. We’ll also answer some frequently asked questions about OLED burn-in and the iPhone 15 Pro Max.
What is OLED Burn-In?
OLED stands for organic light-emitting diode. It’s a type of display technology that uses organic compounds to create light when an electric current passes through them. Unlike LCD displays that use a backlight to illuminate pixels, OLED displays can turn individual pixels on and off independently. This means that OLED displays can produce deeper blacks, higher contrast, and more vibrant colors than LCD displays. It also means that OLED displays can save battery life by turning off pixels that are not in use.
However, OLED displays also have some drawbacks. One of them is OLED burn-in. OLED burn-in occurs when a pixel or a group of pixels becomes permanently discolored or dimmer than the rest of the screen. This happens because the organic compounds that produce light degrade over time, especially when they are exposed to high brightness and static images for long periods of time. As a result, the pixels that are used more frequently tend to wear out faster than the pixels that are used less frequently, creating an uneven distribution of brightness and color on the screen.
OLED burn-in is not a new problem. It has been affecting OLED displays for years, especially on TVs, monitors, and smartphones. However, it has become more noticeable and widespread with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which features a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels and a peak brightness of 1200 nits. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has a high refresh rate of 120 Hz, which means that the screen updates 120 times per second, putting more stress on the pixels.
The Causes and Effects of OLED Burn-In
The main cause of OLED burn-in is leaving a fixed image on the screen for too long. This can happen when you use certain apps or features that display static elements on the screen, such as keyboards, navigation bars, status bars, app icons, widgets, wallpapers, logos, subtitles, etc. These elements can imprint themselves on the screen over time, creating ghost images that linger even when you switch to a different app or background.
The effects of OLED burn-in can vary depending on the severity and location of the damage. Some users may not notice it at all, while others may find it distracting or annoying. OLED burn-in can affect the quality and accuracy of the display, making it harder to read text, view images, watch videos, play games, or use other apps. OLED burn-in can also reduce the resale value of your device, as it indicates a sign of wear and tear.
How to Prevent OLED Burn-In
The best way to prevent OLED burn-in is to avoid leaving a fixed image on the screen for too long. Here are some tips to help you do that:
Adjust Your Screen Brightness and Timeout Settings
One of the factors that contributes to OLED burn-in is the brightness level of the screen. The higher the brightness, the more energy and heat are generated by the pixels, which can accelerate their degradation. Therefore, you should lower your screen brightness as much as possible without compromising your visibility and comfort. You can do this by going to Settings > Display & Brightness and adjusting the slider or turning on Auto-Brightness.
Another factor that contributes to OLED burn-in is the timeout duration of the screen. The longer the screen stays on without any interaction, the more likely it is to develop burn-in. Therefore, you should shorten your screen timeout as much as possible without compromising your convenience and productivity. You can do this by going to Settings > Display & Brightness > Auto-Lock and choosing a shorter time interval.
Use Dark Mode and Dynamic Wallpapers
Another way to prevent OLED burn-in is to use dark mode and dynamic wallpapers on your device. Dark mode is a feature that changes the appearance of your device’s interface from light to dark colors. This reduces the amount of light emitted by the pixels, which can extend their lifespan and prevent burn-in. You can enable dark mode by going to Settings > Display & Brightness and toggling on Dark Mode or scheduling it to turn on automatically.
Dynamic wallpapers are wallpapers that change or move depending on certain conditions, such as time of day, location, weather, etc. This prevents static images from staying on the screen for too long, which can cause burn-in. You can choose a dynamic wallpaper by going to Settings > Wallpaper > Choose a New Wallpaper and selecting Dynamic.
Avoid Static Images and Icons
The last tip to prevent OLED burn-in is to avoid static images and icons on your device as much as possible. This includes things like keyboards, navigation bars, status bars, app icons, widgets, logos, subtitles, etc. These elements can imprint themselves on the screen over time if they are displayed frequently or for long periods of time.
To avoid this problem, you should try to use different apps or features that don’t display static elements on the screen or minimize their exposure. For example:
- Use voice input instead of typing on the keyboard
- Use gestures instead of tapping on the navigation bar
- Hide or customize the status bar
- Rearrange or remove app icons from your home screen
- Use widgets sparingly or choose ones that update frequently
- Avoid logos or watermarks on videos or images
- Turn off subtitles or captions when watching videos
What to Do If You Have OLED Burn-In on Your iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you already have OLED burn-in on your iPhone 15 Pro Max, don’t panic. There are some steps you can take to fix it or at least make it less noticeable. Here’s what you can do:
Check If It’s Really OLED Burn-In or Display Image Persistence
The first thing you should do is to check if what you’re seeing on your screen is really OLED burn-in or display image persistence. These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they are actually different phenomena.
OLED burn-in is a permanent damage to the pixels that cannot be reversed or repaired. It occurs when the organic compounds that produce light degrade over time due to high brightness and static images. OLED burn-in usually appears as faint or dark patches on the screen that don’t change or disappear.
Display image persistence is a temporary distortion of the pixels that can be fixed or improved. It occurs when the electric charge that controls the pixels gets stuck or imbalanced due to software glitches or hardware issues. Display image persistence usually appears as ghost images or afterimages on the screen that fade away or change over time.
How to Tell the Difference Between OLED Burn-In and Display Image Persistence
One way to tell the difference between OLED burn-in and display image persistence is to use a test image or video that shows different colors and patterns on the screen. You can find many online tools or apps that can help you with this, such as this one. By using a test image or video, you can see if the affected areas on your screen change or remain the same when you switch to a different color or pattern.
Another way to tell the difference between OLED burn-in and display image persistence is to use a screenshot or a camera. You can take a screenshot of your screen by pressing the Side button and the Volume Up button at the same time. You can also take a picture of your screen with another device, such as another phone or a camera. By using a screenshot or a camera, you can see if the affected areas on your screen are captured or not in the image.
If the affected areas on your screen change or disappear when you use a test image or video, or if they are not captured in the screenshot or the camera, then you probably have display image persistence. This means that your problem is likely caused by a software bug or a hardware issue that can be fixed or improved.
If the affected areas on your screen remain the same when you use a test image or video, or if they are captured in the screenshot or the camera, then you probably have OLED burn-in. This means that your problem is caused by permanent damage to the pixels that cannot be fixed or improved.
How to Fix Display Image Persistence on Your iPhone 15 Pro Max
If you have display image persistence on your iPhone 15 Pro Max, there are some things you can try to fix it or make it less noticeable. Here are some suggestions:
- Update your iOS software: Apple has acknowledged that some users of the iPhone 15 Pro Max are experiencing display image persistence due to an iOS 17 bug. Apple has promised to release an iOS 17.1 update soon that will address this issue. Therefore, you should check for updates regularly and install them as soon as they are available. You can do this by going to Settings > General > Software Update and tapping Download and Install.
- Restart your device: Sometimes, a simple restart can clear up any glitches or issues that may cause display image persistence. You can restart your device by pressing and holding the Side button and either Volume button until you see the power off slider. Then drag the slider to turn off your device and wait for a few seconds before turning it back on.
- Reset your device: If restarting your device doesn’t work, you can try resetting your device to its factory settings. This will erase all your data and settings and restore your device to its original state. However, this may also fix any software problems that may cause display image persistence. Before you reset your device, make sure you back up your data to iCloud or iTunes. You can reset your device by going to Settings > General > Reset and tapping Erase All Content and Settings.
- Contact Apple Support: If none of the above methods work, you may have a hardware issue that needs professional attention. You should contact Apple Support online or by phone and explain your problem. They may be able to offer you some solutions or advice, such as updating your firmware, running diagnostics, or replacing your display.
Contact Apple Support or Visit an Apple Store
If you have OLED burn-in on your iPhone 15 Pro Max, there is not much you can do to fix it yourself. The only way to get rid of OLED burn-in is to replace the entire display panel, which is not something you can do at home. You will need to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store and have them service your device.
How to Get Your iPhone 15 Pro Max Serviced by Apple
If you want to get your iPhone 15 Pro Max serviced by Apple, you will need to make an appointment first. You can do this online or by phone. You will need to provide some information about your device, such as the model, the serial number, the IMEI number, and the problem you are experiencing. You will also need to choose a date, time, and location for your appointment.
Once you have made an appointment, you will need to prepare your device for service. You should do the following:
- Back up your data to iCloud or iTunes
- Turn off Find My iPhone
- Remove any SIM card or accessories
- Bring your proof of purchase and warranty
- Bring your Apple ID and password
When you arrive at the Apple Store, you will need to check in with an Apple employee and wait for your turn. You will then be greeted by a technician who will examine your device and confirm the problem. The technician will then tell you what options you have for service, such as repair, replacement, or refund.
What to Expect from Apple’s Service and Warranty Policy
The service and warranty policy for the iPhone 15 Pro Max may vary depending on your region, your carrier, and your situation. However, here are some general guidelines that may apply to you:
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. This means that if your device has OLED burn-in due to a manufacturing defect, Apple will repair or replace it for free within the warranty period.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max also comes with 90 days of complimentary technical support that covers software issues and usage questions. This means that if your device has display image persistence due to a software bug, Apple will help you fix it for free within the support period.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max does not come with accidental damage protection or theft protection. This means that if your device has OLED burn-in due to misuse, abuse, or negligence, Apple will not cover it under the warranty or the support. You will have to pay for the service out of your own pocket.
- The iPhone 15 Pro Max does not come with extended warranty or service plans. However, you can purchase them separately from Apple or other providers. These plans may offer additional coverage and benefits for your device, such as longer warranty periods, more technical support options, accidental damage protection, theft protection, etc.
Conclusion
OLED burn-in is a common problem that affects many devices with OLED displays, including the iPhone 15 Pro Max. It occurs when pixels become permanently discolored or dimmer than the rest of the screen due to high brightness and static images. OLED burn-in can affect the quality and accuracy of the display, making it harder to read text, view images, watch videos, play games, or use other apps.
The best way to prevent OLED burn-in is to avoid leaving a fixed image on the screen for too long. You can do this by adjusting your screen brightness and timeout settings, using dark mode and dynamic wallpapers, and avoiding static images and icons.
If you already have OLED burn-in on your iPhone 15 Pro Max, you should check if it’s really OLED burn-in or display image persistence. Display image persistence is a temporary distortion of the pixels that can be fixed or improved by updating your iOS software, restarting your device, resetting your device, or contacting Apple Support. OLED burn-in is a permanent damage to the pixels that cannot be fixed or improved by yourself. You will need to contact Apple Support or visit an Apple Store and have them service your device.
Before you get your device serviced by Apple, you should make an appointment online or by phone and prepare your device for service by backing up your data, turning off Find My iPhone, removing any SIM card or accessories, bringing your proof of purchase and warranty, and bringing your Apple ID and password. You should also be aware of Apple’s service and warranty policy for the iPhone 15 Pro Max and what options you have for service, such as repair, replacement, or refund.
We hope this article has helped you understand what OLED burn-in is, how to prevent it, how to fix it if you have it, and what to expect from Apple’s service and warranty policy. If you have any questions or comments about OLED burn-in and the iPhone 15 Pro Max, feel free to leave them below.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about OLED burn-in and the iPhone 15 Pro Max:
Q: How long does it take for OLED burn-in to occur?
A: There is no definitive answer to this question, as OLED burn-in depends on many factors, such as the brightness level of the screen, the duration of exposure to static images, the color and contrast of the images, the age and quality of the display panel, etc. However, some experts estimate that it may take anywhere from a few hours to a few years for OLED burn-in to occur
Q: How can I tell if my iPhone 15 Pro Max has OLED burn-in or not?
A: You can use a test image or video that shows different colors and patterns on the screen, such as this one. If the affected areas on your screen change or disappear when you switch to a different color or pattern, then you probably have display image persistence, which is a temporary distortion of the pixels that can be fixed or improved. If the affected areas on your screen remain the same when you switch to a different color or pattern, then you probably have OLED burn-in, which is a permanent damage to the pixels that cannot be fixed or improved.
You can also use a screenshot or a camera to capture your screen. If the affected areas on your screen are not captured in the screenshot or the camera, then you probably have display image persistence. If the affected areas on your screen are captured in the screenshot or the camera, then you probably have OLED burn-in.
Q: How common is OLED burn-in on the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
A: OLED burn-in is a common problem that affects many devices with OLED displays, not just the iPhone 15 Pro Max. However, it has become more noticeable and widespread with the iPhone 15 Pro Max, which features a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2778 x 1284 pixels and a peak brightness of 1200 nits. The iPhone 15 Pro Max also has a high refresh rate of 120 Hz, which means that the screen updates 120 times per second, putting more stress on the pixels.
According to some reports, OLED burn-in has been affecting up to 10% of iPhone 15 Pro Max users within the first month of use. However, Apple has claimed that most of these cases are actually display image persistence caused by an iOS 17 bug that will be fixed in an upcoming update.
Q: How much does it cost to replace the display panel of the iPhone 15 Pro Max?
A: The cost of replacing the display panel of the iPhone 15 Pro Max depends on whether you have AppleCare+ or not. AppleCare+ is an optional service plan that extends your warranty and technical support for your device and also covers up to two incidents of accidental damage every 12 months.
If you have AppleCare+, replacing the display panel of the iPhone 15 Pro Max will cost you $29. However, if you don’t have AppleCare+, replacing the display panel of the iPhone 15 Pro Max will cost you $329. These prices are for US customers only and may vary depending on your region and carrier.
Q: Are there any alternatives to OLED displays that don’t have OLED burn-in issues?
A: Yes, there are some alternatives to OLED displays that don’t have OLED burn-in issues, such as LCD displays and microLED displays.
LCD stands for liquid crystal display. It’s a type of display technology that uses a backlight to illuminate pixels that are made of liquid crystals. LCD displays don’t have OLED burn-in issues because they don’t use organic compounds that degrade over time. However, LCD displays also have some drawbacks, such as lower contrast, less vibrant colors, higher power consumption, and thicker design than OLED displays.
MicroLED stands for micro light-emitting diode. It’s a type of display technology that uses tiny LEDs to create light and pixels. MicroLED displays don’t have OLED burn-in issues because they don’t use organic compounds that degrade over time. They also have some advantages over OLED displays, such as higher brightness, lower power consumption, longer lifespan, and thinner design. However, microLED displays are still in development and not widely available yet.
Q: Will Apple fix my iPhone 15 Pro Max if I have OLED burn-in caused by misuse, abuse, or negligence?
A: No, Apple will not fix your iPhone 15 Pro Max if you have OLED burn-in caused by misuse, abuse, or negligence. This includes things like leaving your device on a static image for too long, exposing your device to extreme temperatures or humidity, dropping your device or causing physical damage to it, modifying your device or installing unauthorized software on it, etc.
Apple’s warranty and support policy only covers defects in materials and workmanship that occur during normal use of your device. If your device has OLED burn-in caused by misuse, abuse, or negligence, Apple will consider it as out-of-warranty service and charge you accordingly. You will have to pay for the service out of your own pocket.
