Andy Boxall / Digital Trends
If you’re noticing lingering shadowy images on your mobile device, it may be experiencing screen burn-in. This rare phenomenon can occur when all or part of an image remains faintly visible on the screen even when it should be displaying something else.
While display technology has improved to reduce the occurrence of screen burn-in, it can still happen based on your device usage. The good news is that it can be prevented with some simple precautions.
What is screen burn-in?
The concept of screen burn-in dates back to CRT displays, where phosphors would wear unevenly over time, resulting in persistent images on the screen. This issue was common in monochrome displays from the early computing era.
Get your weekly teardown of the tech behind PC gaming
Even with advancements in technology, newer displays such as OLED and LCD can still experience burn-in, though it’s less common and usually temporary on LCD panels.
What causes screen burn-in on phones?
Screen burn-in occurs when a static image is left on the screen for an extended period, making it more common on devices like TVs or tablets used in specific scenarios.
Devices with OLED technology are more prone to burn-in, such as certain Apple and Android smartphones that use OLED or AMOLED displays.
How to prevent screen burn-in
If you suspect screen burn-in, it’s essential to address it promptly. Letting your screen rest or using corrective apps can help resolve image retention issues before they turn into permanent burn-in damage.
