Computer Hardware
Touchscreen
Definition
A touchscreen is an input and output device normally layered on the top of an electronic visual display of an information processing system. A user can give input or control the information processing system through simple or multi-touch gestures by touching the screen with a special stylus or one or more fingers.
Why It Matters
Touchscreens have defined the modern era of mobile computing, making smartphones and tablets possible. They provide a direct and intuitive way to interact with on-screen content.
Contextual Example
You interact with your smartphone almost entirely through its touchscreen, by tapping on app icons, swiping through lists, and typing on a virtual keyboard.
Common Misunderstandings
- A touchscreen is both an input device (it senses your touch) and an output device (it displays the image).
- There are different types of touchscreen technology, with "capacitive" (used in all modern smartphones) being the most common.