Latest Technology News: PWM dimming in phones explained: what it is, why it matters

New Delhi,UPDATED: Jul 24, 2023 6:37 PM IST

By Ankita Garg: Are you familiar with PWM dimming on phones? Although it is not a new concept, it remains unknown to many, which leaves questions about its meaning and the importance of high PWM in devices. This technology plays a crucial role in solving screen flicker sensitivity issues. Some phones now incorporate higher PWM frequencies or use DC dimming to alleviate eye strain and improve user satisfaction. Let’s dive into the details to better understand its meaning and benefits.

What is PWM dimming in phones?

PWM stands for pulse width modulation. This is a technique used in phone screens to control brightness. It involves rapidly turning the screen on and off at a specific frequency, creating the illusion of different levels of brightness. The width of these on-off cycles determines the perceived brightness.

PWM dimming: why is it important? Do you have headaches or eye strain?

When the PWM frequency is too low (usually below 200 Hz or even below 500 Hz), some people may experience headaches or eyestrain. This is because at low frequencies the rapid cycles of display pixels turning on and off become more noticeable and can cause flickering, which can be uncomfortable and distracting to some people.

In simpler terms, a very high PWM frequency means flickers happen too quickly to be seen by the human eye, while slower speeds can cause eye strain, headaches, seizures and eye pain. Many phones have poor PWM dimming, and this is something companies need to improve and users need to be aware of. However, the good thing is that we have started to see a few phones with high PWM.

Realme recently launched 10 Pro+ with a screen frequency of 2160Hz, the highest on a smartphone in India. One won’t have much problem while using the phone in low light conditions. Honor is said to be preparing to launch Honor 90 in September in India with 3840Hz PWM, and the screen of the device has been declared as the most eye-safe (in global markets). DXOmark in its test gave it a standard Gold display badge, as low-light flicker almost disappears compared to flagships like the Galaxy S23 series, iPhones, and other devices on the market. It even has good display specs. Phones like the Poco F4 GT and Redmi K50 also offer high PWM.

If your device has low PWM, I would advise not using the handset with the lights off in the room. It’s best to keep brightness levels at the point where your eyes are comfortable and in a bright room to avoid eye strain or headaches.

Comparison of DC Dimming and PWM Dimming on Phones

OnePlus previously offered DC (direct current) dimming on its phones. But is it different from PWM dimming? Instead of rapidly turning screen pixels on and off as in PWM dimming, DC dimming changes the amount of current supplied to the pixels, which changes their brightness. By adjusting the current, the display can be made brighter or darker. However, DC dimming doesn’t seem to offer transitions as smooth as PWM dimming, and color rendition isn’t as pronounced, which is something we also experienced. PWM dimming can help better control brightness through more precise impact.



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An Overview of Global Events in 2023

In 2023, the world witnessed a myriad of events that left a lasting impact on global affairs. From political developments and economic shifts to environmental challenges and breakthroughs in science and technology, the year was marked by significant changes and a sense of urgency for collective action. Here’s an overview of some of the latest world news in 2023.

Political Unrest and Diplomatic Strides:
In the political arena, several regions experienced unrest and geopolitical tensions. The ongoing conflict in the Middle East continued to dominate headlines, with efforts towards peace and stability remaining elusive. However, there were also moments of diplomatic breakthroughs as nations engaged in dialogues to ease tensions and work towards lasting solutions.

Economic Transformations:
The global economy faced both challenges and opportunities. Trade disputes between major powers affected markets, while some countries grappled with debt crises. On the other hand, emerging economies showed resilience and promising growth, fueling optimism for a more balanced global economic landscape.

Technological Advancements:
Innovation surged forward in the tech industry, with breakthroughs in artificial intelligence, renewable energy, and space exploration. Quantum computing achieved milestones, promising radical transformations across industries. Renewable energy sources gained traction, with many countries setting ambitious goals to combat climate change.

Climate Crisis and Environmental Resilience:
As the climate crisis intensified, extreme weather events wreaked havoc in various parts of the world. Wildfires, hurricanes, and floods reminded humanity of the urgent need for climate action. In response, governments and communities across the globe doubled down on efforts to reduce carbon emissions, invest in sustainable infrastructure, and protect biodiversity.

Health and Pandemic Management:
Health remained a global priority as countries continued to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. With the emergence of new variants, vaccination efforts and public health measures remained crucial to curbing the spread of the virus. There were also significant advancements in medical research and technology, offering hope for better preparedness in handling future health crises.

Sports and Cultural Milestones:
Amidst the challenges, the world found moments of joy and unity through sports and culture. International sporting events brought together athletes from diverse backgrounds, promoting solidarity and camaraderie. Cultural exchanges and celebrations showcased the richness of human diversity and fostered mutual understanding.

In conclusion, the year 2023 was a dynamic period filled with significant events that shaped the course of history. From political unrest to technological advancements and environmental challenges, the world witnessed the complexities of the global landscape. While obstacles remained, there were also encouraging developments and collaborative efforts towards a more sustainable, peaceful, and prosperous future for all nations. As we move forward, the lessons learned from these events serve as a reminder of the importance of collective action and cooperation to address shared global challenges.