Billedretention

Billedretention, commonly translated as image persistence, is the temporary persistence of a visible image on a display after the original image has changed. It occurs when the display maintains a residual impression of static content, such as a user interface element or a logo, even though the screen now shows something else. Billedretention is distinct from burn-in, which is a more permanent form of image retention caused by uneven aging of pixels.

Causes include prolonged display of static elements (status bars, logos, or navigation controls), sustained high brightness, and the characteristics of the display technology. OLED screens are especially susceptible to long-term burn-in, while LCDs can exhibit transient image persistence that fades over time. Plasma and CRT displays can also show lingering images under certain conditions.

Prevention focuses on reducing exposure to static content and avoiding excessive brightness. Users are advised to use screensavers or dynamic content, enable automatic image shift or pixel orbiting where available, and regularly vary the content displayed. Lowering brightness and contrast, enabling color dithering, and avoiding leaving the same image fixed on screen for extended periods also help.

Mitigation after occurrence includes displaying moving or uniform content (for example, a gray or white screen) for short periods, and using built-in pixel refresh techniques where the device provides them. With OLED screens, manufacturers often include maintenance features to help reduce lingering images. Avoid turning the device off and on rapidly, and give the display time to recover with varied content.

In most cases billedretention is temporary and resolves with normal use. Persistent burn-in is rare but can be permanent in severe cases, and may have practical implications for display quality and warranty coverage.