A backlight is a form of illumination used in liquid-crystal displays (LCDs) that provides light from the back or side of a display panel. LCDs do not produce light on their own, so they require illumination—either from ambient light or a dedicated light source—to create a visible image. Backlights are commonly used in smartphones, computer monitors, and LCD televisions. They are also used in small displays, such as wristwatches, to enhance readability in low-light conditions.
Typical light sources for backlights include light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and cold cathode fluorescent lamps (CCFLs).