Part of the Wireless and mobile glossary:

Auto-correct is a type of software program that identifies misspelled words, uses algorithms to identify the words most likely to have been intended, and edits the text accordingly. Auto-correct is commonly a feature included in word processors and messaging platforms of various types. Apple, Google and Microsoft products all have their own versions of auto-correct programs. 

Next Steps

Auto-correct programs work very well with common and straight-forward typos, such as "teh" for "the." However, their algorithms are far from infallible, in particular with auto-correct programs for smartphones, which are often more active as a means of facilitating typing on the devices' small keyboards. There are a number of websites dedicated to humorous auto-correct fails.

 

This was last updated in October 2012
Contributor(s): Ivy Wigmore
Posted by: Margaret Rouse

Related Terms

Definitions

  • auto-correct fail (auto-correct error)

    - An auto-correct fail is an error created when the software created to detect and correct misspelled words replaces a user-generated mistake with a different, and possibly worse, error. (WhatIs.com)

  • Cupertino effect

    - The Cupertino effect is an erroneous suggestion or replacement by a spellchecker, auto-correct program or smartphone predictive text feature. (WhatIs.com)

  • predictive text

    - Predictive text is an input technology that is designed to facilitate typing by suggesting words based on the first letters typed, in the context of other words in the message. (WhatIs.com)

Glossaries

  • Wireless and mobile

    - Terms related to wireless and mobile technology, including definitions about consumer mobile technology devices and communication technologies such as Wi-Fi, WiMAX and LTE.

  • Software applications

    - Terms related to software applications, including definitions about software programs for vertical industries and words and phrases about software development, use and management.

  • Personal computing

    - Terms related to personal computers, including definitions about computers sold as consumer products and words and phrases about laptops, tablets and smartphones.

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