The Fall of Screensavers: Grasping the Reasons Modern Computers No Longer Need Them

The Fall of Screensavers: Grasping the Reasons Modern Computers No Longer Need Them

2 Min Read

slightly radioactive. More crucially, if a static image was displayed on the screen for prolonged durations, it could lead to the image being etched into the glass, hence the term “burn-in.” Screensavers were created to combat this issue by running videos when the computer remained idle for too long.

Nonetheless, many contemporary screens utilize liquid-crystal display (LCD) technology, where liquid crystals twist based on the flow of electricity. This advancement not only offers a richer array of colors but is also thinner and resistant to burn-in. Therefore, screensavers are not needed to protect LCD screens. Although screensavers still exist, they are merely a reminder of their past prominence. In the ’90s, bizarre and colorful screensavers thrived, featuring flying toasters and 3D mazes. Today, however, it’s rare for a computer to come with a screensaver that merely showcases CGI streamers transitioning between random colors.

Some modern screens still need screensavers

The advent of the LCD screen signified the downturn of the screensaver, yet entertainment technology continued to advance. While numerous modern televisions and displays utilize LCDs, organic light-emitting diodes (OLEDs) have also gained popularity. But as the saying goes: One step forward, two steps back.

OLED screens deliver brilliant images due to thin layers of organic compounds that emit light upon electrical stimulation. Though they don’t achieve the brightness of LCD models, they provide exceptional contrast, a high dynamic range, and wide viewing angles. A number of the finest 4K monitors (including those meant for work and gaming secondary displays) employ OLED technology. However, these diodes make OLED screens susceptible to burn-in issues. This should not be mistaken for dead or stuck pixels, which arise from hardware and software failures. Those static light dots can be easily remedied with some technical expertise (or a technician), but screen burn-in is irreversible.

While some may contend that computer manufacturers retained screensavers in operating systems out of tradition even when they are unnecessary with LCD displays, technology has come full circle and now necessitates screensavers again—if you own an OLED, that is. Indeed, if you possess an OLED TV with Amazon Fire and step away for a moment, you may be annoyed to return to full-screen ads, yet at least those somewhat intrusive commercials assist in maintaining your TV’s display integrity.

You can tie screensavers to functionality

You might also like