Resize

Resize is the act of changing the size of an object or its representation. In computing, it often refers to altering the dimensions of digital media, user interfaces, or data buffers. Resizing can preserve or change aspect ratio and may involve interpolation or reallocation of resources.

In image processing, resizing means changing the pixel dimensions of an image. Downscaling reduces resolution and can remove detail, while upscaling increases resolution and may introduce blur or artifacts. Common interpolation methods include nearest neighbor (fast and blocky), bilinear and bicubic (smoother), and Lanczos (high quality). In vector graphics, resizing is a scaling of coordinates, typically without quality loss, since vectors are defined by mathematical relations rather than pixels.

In video and displays, resizing applies to frames or entire layouts. Real-time scaling uses image interpolation and may involve color and gamma corrections. Aspect ratio handling determines whether to preserve width-to-height proportion or to stretch the content.

In user interfaces, resizing refers to changing a window or panel size, often affecting layout and rendering performance. Designers may use responsive approaches to adapt content to varying sizes.

In programming, resize also describes changing the capacity of data structures, such as dynamic arrays. This typically requires allocating a larger buffer and copying existing elements, with tradeoffs between memory use and performance.