Linus Torvalds: 2560x1600 Needs To Be Next Standard

"1366x768 is so last century", he wrote in a post on his Google+ profile. A bit of an exaggeration, since most laptops ran at 1024x768 in 1999, but he may not have a hard time finding supporters.

"So with even a $399 tablet doing 2560x1600 pixel displays, can we please just make that the new standard laptop resolution? Even at 11?" He continued: "The fact that laptops stagnated ten years ago (and even regressed, in many cases) at around half that in both directions is just sad."

Of course, on smaller displays, a higher resolution means smaller fonts. On that front, Torvalds says: "And the next technology journalist that asks you whether you want fonts that small, I'll just hunt down and give an atomic wedgie."

Yes, we know, sharp fonts have more sex appeal and yes, we also know that font sizes can be increased. We also know that the graphics chip industry, as well as screen makers, are targeting 2560x1600 as standard resolution for notebooks. It would be optimistic to expect this resolution in every notebook, but 2013 should bring 1920x1080 to entry-level devices and 2560x1600 to mainstream and high-end notebooks.

There will also be some other tiers with tweeners and higher resolutions. Intel recently noted that it would expect 11-inch notebooks to see 2560x1440 resolutions, 13-inch models 2800x1800 and 15-inch and above 3840x2160.

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Wolfgang Gruener
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Wolfgang Gruener is an experienced professional in digital strategy and content, specializing in web strategy, content architecture, user experience, and applying AI in content operations within the insurtech industry. His previous roles include Director, Digital Strategy and Content Experience at American Eagle, Managing Editor at TG Daily, and contributing to publications like Tom's Guide and Tom's Hardware.