HighPPI

HighPPI describes displays or imagery with high pixel-per-inch density, typically above 300 PPI. It refers to the perceived sharpness of text and details, which improves as pixel density increases, especially at common viewing distances.

PPI is calculated by dividing the diagonal resolution in pixels by the diagonal size in inches. Higher PPI reduces visible individual pixels, but gains taper with viewing distance and eye resolution.

In practice, devices labeled HighPPI include smartphones, tablets, laptops, VR headsets, and digital signage, where close viewing distances demand sharpness. UI and content often use scalable fonts and vector graphics to preserve crispness.

Trade-offs include increased power use, GPU workload, and manufacturing cost. Software support is needed to render at correct device pixel ratios and to scale assets for displays with uneven density.

Historically, the rise of high-resolution mobile displays popularized the concept. Apple popularized the term Retina to denote high-density screens; HighPPI is a descriptive term rather than a formal standard.

See also: pixel density, PPI, dpi, device pixel ratio, Retina display, display technology.