autobrightness

Autobrightness, also called adaptive brightness, is a display feature that automatically adjusts screen brightness in response to ambient lighting conditions. The intent is to keep content readable while reducing power consumption and minimizing eye strain in changing environments.

How it works: A light sensor, often located near the display bezel, measures ambient luminance. Software uses this data to determine a target brightness level, sometimes incorporating user preferences, recent adjustments, and time of day. Some systems also modify color temperature or contrast to improve perceived readability. On LCD panels, brightness changes are achieved by adjusting the backlight and, on OLED panels, by driving the individual pixels to different intensities. In some devices, adaptive algorithms may combine ambient light readings with activity context, such as whether the device is in use or idle.

Learning and customization: Many implementations learn from user adjustments, gradually refining the brightness curve to suit individual patterns. Users can typically disable autobrightness or set a manual brightness level, with the device reverting to automatic control when the setting is re-enabled.

Benefits and limitations: Autobrightness can improve readability and comfort while saving energy, but it may produce abrupt brightness changes or lag during rapid lighting transitions. Sensor placement and occlusion, such as by glare or screen covers, can reduce accuracy. Results can vary across devices and panel technologies, and some users prefer manual control for consistency.

See also: ambient light sensor, display brightness, energy efficiency.