Jargon Buster
2G Second-generation cellular network.
2K 2048x1080-pixel resolution.
32bit/64bit A measure of how much data a PC can process at once. Most older computers are 32bit, more modern ones are 64bit.
3G/4G/5G Technologies that deliver faster mobile broadband.
4K Video with a resolution of at least 3840x2160 pixels.
Accelerometer A sensor that detects movement. Used in smartphones to decide whether or not to display a portrait or landscape screen, control games or even work as a spirit level.
Active noise cancelling Method for reducing unwanted sound by adding a second sound specifically designed to cancel the first.
Administrator Someone who can make changes to a computer that will affect others who also use it.
Agentic Software that acts independently to plan tasks and make decisions.
API Application Programming Interface. A system built into a program so that other programs can work with it.
API key Unique code identifying and authorising a user or app.
ARM Processors that are more energy-efficient than those made by AMD and Intel.
Aspect ratio A measurement of the shape of a screen. Traditional PC screens are 4:3. Widescreen displays are 16:9 or 16:10.
BIOS Basic Input-Output System. Software built into every PC that connects the vital components.