Retina display is a marketing term used by Apple to describe high-resolution screens that have pixel densities high enough that individual pixels are difficult to discern at a normal viewing distance. The term was first introduced with the iPhone 4 in 2010 and has since been used for various Apple devices, including iPhones, iPads, and MacBooks.
The key characteristic of a Retina display is its high pixel density, which means there are a large number of pixels packed into a relatively small screen area. The idea is to make text and images appear smoother and more detailed, providing a more immersive and visually pleasing viewing experience. The specific pixel density required to qualify as a Retina display can vary depending on the device and its typical usage distance.
Here are some of the devices that feature Retina displays and their approximate pixel densities:
- iPhone: The iPhone 4 and later models, including the iPhone 13 series, feature Retina displays. Pixel densities range from around 326 pixels per inch (PPI) to over 460 PPI.
- iPad: Various iPad models, such as the iPad mini, iPad Air, and iPad Pro, incorporate Retina displays. The pixel density varies between models but generally ranges from around 264 PPI to 326 PPI.
- MacBook: Some MacBook models, including the MacBook Pro with Retina display, have screens with high pixel densities. Pixel densities can go up to around 220 PPI or more.
It’s important to note that while Retina display is a term associated with Apple products, other manufacturers also produce high-resolution displays with similar pixel densities on their devices.
The concept of Retina display emphasizes the importance of creating a visually sharp and crisp display for improved user experience, especially when it comes to reading text, viewing images, and watching videos on electronic devices.