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Midi

MIDI, or Musical Instrument Digital Interface, is a and that enables electronic musical instruments, computers, and other related devices to connect and exchange performance data, such as events, , and parameters, without transmitting audio signals. Developed in the early , it revolutionized music production by allowing seamless among synthesizers, sequencers, and software, facilitating and in both studio and live settings. The origins of MIDI trace back to 1981, when synthesizer designer Dave Smith of Sequential Circuits proposed a "Universal Synthesizer Interface" at an convention to address the incompatibility issues plaguing electronic instruments at the time. The first MIDI-enabled device, the Sequential Circuits Prophet-600 , shipped in December 1982, followed by a public demonstration in January 1983 at the , where it successfully interfaced with a Roland Jupiter-6. The official MIDI 1.0 specification was published in August 1983 by the MIDI Manufacturers Association (MMA), a consortium of American and Japanese companies including Sequential Circuits and , establishing a serial data protocol operating at 31,250 baud with 5-pin DIN connectors. This standard quickly became ubiquitous, powering the boom of the and influencing genres from pop to electronic music. At its core, MIDI functions through a series of short messages, including Note On (to start a note with ), Note Off (to end it), Program Change (to select instrument sounds), and Control Change (for parameters like volume or ), organized across channels to support multitimbral setups. These messages use a status byte followed by data bytes in format, with features like running status to optimize data transmission by omitting redundant bytes. System messages handle synchronization via timing clocks and device-specific extensions through System Exclusive (SysEx) data, enabling applications beyond music, such as in and . Over time, MIDI has adapted to modern interfaces like USB and while maintaining compatibility. In response to evolving needs for higher precision and expressivity, the MMA introduced MIDI 2.0 in 2019, with core specifications finalized and adopted by June 2023, extending the original protocol without obsoleting it. Key enhancements include bidirectional communication via MIDI Capability Inquiry (MIDI-CI) for device discovery and auto-configuration, 32-bit resolution for controllers (versus 7-bit in 1.0), per-note expression for nuanced performance, and support for up to 256 channels across 16 groups using the Universal MIDI Packet (UMP) format. Profiles standardize implementations for specific uses, such as General MIDI 2 (GM2) and Multidimensional Polyphonic Expression (MPE), while Property Exchange allows JSON-based data sharing between devices. By 2025, MIDI 2.0 has seen integration into major platforms, including Apple's Core MIDI since October 2021 and Android 13 (released 2022), with updates like Logic Pro's MIDI 2.0 data display support in August 2025 and ongoing development for broader adoption in software and hardware.

Music

Musical Instrument Digital Interface (MIDI)

The (MIDI) is a that defines a for communication between musical instruments, computers, and related audio devices, transmitting such as events rather than actual audio signals. Developed in the early through collaborative efforts led by Dave Smith of Sequential Circuits, along with key contributors including Ikutaro Kakehashi of and , MIDI emerged as a solution to the challenges faced by synthesizers from different manufacturers. The was first proposed in 1981 at the convention and finalized in its 1.0 specification by 1983, enabling seamless exchange for musical control. At its core, operates through a series of messages structured as an eight-bit byte followed by one or two bytes, allowing devices to interpret commands like note onset, duration, and intensity. Key message types include Channel Voice messages such as Note On and Note Off (which trigger and release sounds with a key number and value indicating ), Control Change (for adjusting parameters like or modulation), and Program Change (to select instrument patches). These messages are organized across up to 16 channels per MIDI connection, permitting multiple independent streams of —such as separate instruments or tracks—within a single cable. The original hardware interface uses a 5-pin DIN connector with a 31.25 kbaud rate, ensuring reliable low-voltage signaling over shielded cables up to 15 meters long. MIDI's historical adoption was rapid following its 1983 debut, with major manufacturers like Roland (contributing connector standards and timing features) and Yamaha (providing UART chip designs) integrating it into products such as the Roland Jupiter-6 and Yamaha DX7 synthesizers by late 1983. This widespread support transformed music technology, evolving from basic instrument linking to include Standard MIDI Files for data storage and playback in the mid-1980s. In 2020, the MIDI Manufacturers Association released MIDI 2.0 specifications, introducing bidirectional communication via MIDI Capability Inquiry (MIDI-CI) for device negotiation and higher data resolution (up to 32-bit for parameters like velocity and pitch bend), while maintaining backward compatibility with MIDI 1.0. These enhancements address limitations in expressive control, such as finer per-note adjustments. Common applications of MIDI span music production and live performance, where it enables real-time control of virtual instruments and hardware synthesizers within digital audio workstations (DAWs). For instance, in DAWs like , MIDI data from controllers drives sequencing, , and , allowing producers to layer tracks, edit performances post-recording, and synchronize effects without audio . In live settings, MIDI facilitates dynamic setups like triggering samples or switching patches across multiple devices, enhancing improvisational workflows for performers. Some modern Hi-Fi systems also incorporate MIDI compatibility for of playback functions.

Midi Hi-Fi System

The Midi Hi-Fi system refers to a mid-sized, integrated home audio setup that bridges the gap between full-sized component stereos and compact mini systems, typically combining an amplifier, FM/AM tuner, cassette deck, and turntable within a unified stackable unit measuring around 30-40 cm in width per component. Here, "Midi" refers to the medium or compact size of the components, distinct from the Musical Instrument Digital Interface protocol. These systems originated in during the late and , pioneered by manufacturers like and to suit urban living spaces with limited room for bulky equipment, reflecting the era's shift toward more accessible consumer audio amid the hi-fi boom. Common technical specifications included power outputs of 20-50 watts per channel into 8 ohms, as exemplified by the SA-3000 amplifier's 40 watts per channel, alongside a of 10 Hz to 100 kHz and below 0.05% for clear stereo reproduction. Cassette decks often incorporated B to minimize tape hiss, while tuners provided sensitivity around 1.8 µV for reliable reception, and turntables featured belt-drive mechanisms with anti-skating for stable playback. By the 2000s, Midi Hi-Fi systems waned in popularity, overtaken by the rise of sources like and players, alongside more versatile home theater setups that integrated video capabilities.

People

Domnall Midi

Domnall mac Murchada, known as Domnall Midi ("of Meath"), was an king of the Clann Cholmáin branch of the Southern dynasty who ruled as King of Mide from approximately 715 to 763 and is recognized as a during much of that period. He succeeded his father, Murchad mac Diarmato, upon the latter's death in 715, as recorded in the , which describe Murchad as king of . Domnall's reign was marked by military campaigns that solidified Uí Néill dominance in central Ireland. In 743, he defeated and killed Áed Allán, king of the Northern Uí Néill's Cenél nÉogain branch, at the Battle of Seredmag near Kells in modern ; this victory, noted in both the Annals of Ulster and Annals of Tigernach, elevated Domnall to unchallenged status by eliminating a key rival. Another notable event occurred in 756, when Domnall led a combined force with the men of (Laigin) in a destructive raid on the territory of Conailli Muirthemne in modern , as reported in the Annals of Ulster. These actions helped secure alliances and deter threats from eastern kingdoms, though Domnall notably refrained from direct assaults on the Uí Dúnlainge rulers of northern . Domnall's death in 763 is recorded as his "repose" in the Annals of Ulster and Annals of Tigernach, with no indication of foul play such as poisoning; he was likely in his sixties. His passing ended over four decades of rule that advanced Clann Cholmáin's influence, paving the way for the dynasty's alternation with Cenél nÉogain in the high kingship and strengthening control over the strategic plain of . He was the father of Donnchad Midi, who succeeded him as King of and later became .

Donnchad Midi

Donnchad Midi was the son of Domnall Midi and succeeded his father as King of Mide around 766, ruling until his death in 797. A member of the Clann Cholmáin branch of the Southern dynasty, he claimed the high kingship of from the 770s onward, positioning himself as a key power in central Ireland during a period of dynastic competition and emerging external threats. His inheritance from Domnall included control over the strategic kingdom of Mide, which he used to project influence across the northern half of the island. Donnchad's reign featured significant military engagements, including a victory against Viking invaders at Inber Domnann in 796, as recorded in the Annals of Ulster, where their leader, a jarl of the foreigners, was killed. He also pursued alliances with Munster rulers to bolster defenses against shared enemies, navigating complex relations amid ongoing conflicts with Leinster and Ulster kingdoms. These efforts helped consolidate Uí Néill authority in the face of Viking incursions that began in the 790s. Renowned for his , Donnchad actively patronized the , supporting monastic communities and embodying the era's ideal of a Christian . His lies in fortifying the Clann Cholmáin lineage as a dominant force within the , enabling subsequent members to claim the high kingship more effectively. He died in 797 at Tech Duinn after the "victory of ," a in the indicating a repentant and spiritually resolved end to his life, at approximately age 64. The record his passing on 6 February, emphasizing his long rule of 27 years.

Jin Midi

Jin Midi (c. 134–86 BC) was a prominent official of ethnicity during the Western , exemplifying the integration of nomadic elites into society. Born into the royal family of the Xiutu tribe, a major faction under the , he was captured at the age of thirteen during General Huo Qubing's campaign against the in 121 BC and brought to the capital as a slave. Despite his foreign origins, Midi demonstrated exceptional talent in horsemanship and , rising through the ranks from servitude to become a trusted . His assimilation into culture highlighted the dynasty's policies of incorporating skilled individuals from conquered peoples to strengthen imperial administration and military capabilities. Midi's career advanced rapidly under (r. 141–87 BC), particularly through the patronage of , who recognized his loyalty and recommended him for higher positions. Around 100 BC, he was appointed as a general, leading forces in campaigns against incursions and participating in diplomatic missions to negotiate truces and alliances with his former kin. His intimate knowledge of customs proved invaluable, enabling effective intelligence and strategy that contributed to victories in the northern frontiers. In 91 BC, during the rebellion incited by the eunuch Jiang Chong, Midi protected the young crown prince (future Zhao) and helped suppress the uprising, further solidifying his status and earning imperial favor. Following the emperor's death in 87 BC, Midi served as co-regent alongside during the early reign of the infant Zhao, overseeing regency duties with restraint and integrity. Midi died in 86 BC at the age of 48, reportedly from illness, and was posthumously honored with the title of Marquis Jing of Li, with his family granted estates and continued noble status. His son, Jin Chang, later inherited the marquisate, perpetuating the lineage's prominence. Midi's life and achievements symbolized the Han dynasty's successful assimilation policies toward nomadic groups, demonstrating how former adversaries could become pillars of the empire through merit and loyalty. His story is primarily recorded in the Hanshu (Book of Han) by Ban Gu, chapter 68, with earlier mentions in Sima Qian's Shiji (Records of the Grand Historian), chapter 112, underscoring his role in Han-Xiongnu relations.

General Midi (DJ)

Paul Damian Crossman, known professionally as , is an English DJ and producer who emerged from the club scene in the 1990s. He gained early recognition as a at the Shimmy Club starting in 1994, where his sets blending breaks and helped define his dub-flavored, bass-heavy style. Crossman's work often featured level-crunching production techniques that set him apart from contemporaries, earning support from prominent DJs like Timo Maas, , and Plump DJs, as well as radio play from and . Throughout his career, General Midi released influential tracks and albums on labels such as Thursday Club Recordings (TCR) and Kilowatt, pioneering nu-skool breaks with a focus on energetic, genre-blending sounds. Key early releases include the 1999 single "The Westoner / The Eastoner" on Boom Box Records and "Daft Funk / The Future" in 2001 on TCR, which showcased his ability to fuse , breaks, and elements. His debut , Midi Style, arrived in 2005 via Distinct'ive Records, featuring tracks like "Entertainer," "Bass Rockerz," and "House of Funk" that highlighted his production prowess and collaborations with artist Eelz on defining cuts such as "Kickbox" and "Audio Assault - Bangin'." A follow-up , Operation Overdrive, was released in 2009 on the same label, continuing his exploration of bass-fueled music. General Midi's draws from the General MIDI protocol, a standard for musical instruments that revolutionized music production by enabling standardized digital interfacing. His live performances incorporated this technology's influence, with global residencies at venues like Fabric in , Zouk in , and events across the , , and , where he delivered high-energy sets rooted in breaks and . Crossman has influenced subsequent scenes through his innovative approach to and integration, maintaining an active presence in production into the .

Transport

Chemins de fer du Midi

The Compagnie des chemins de fer du Midi was founded in 1852 by the , Isaac and Émile, as a company tasked with developing infrastructure in southwestern . It received concessions for major lines, including the route from to Sète and from to Irun near the Spanish border, aiming to connect key ports, industrial centers, and border regions. By the early , the network had grown significantly, encompassing southwestern and supporting through rail links to agricultural and mining areas. During its operations, the company constructed pivotal lines such as the Bordeaux-Sète route, which opened in sections between 1855 and 1857, facilitating trade between Atlantic ports and Mediterranean outlets. In 1858, it also assumed management of the under a 40-year , enabling coordinated rail-canal for like wine and . The company initiated electrification efforts in the early , with significant conversions to 1,500 V DC starting in 1922 following a 1920 government mandate, electrifying approximately 1,760 km of lines by , powered by regional hydroelectric sources; this included early adoption on routes like Toulouse-Hendaye by 1927, reducing dependency and improving efficiency. The company played a crucial role in regional by linking isolated areas to urban centers and boosting through scenic lines. In 1934, the merged its operations with the to form the Chemins de fer de Paris à Orléans et du Midi (PO-Midi), streamlining administration ahead of nationalization. On January 1, 1938, it was fully integrated into the () under a , ending private control and unifying the national network. This transition preserved the Midi's contributions to southwestern connectivity while addressing financial challenges from the . The company's legacy endures in iconic operations like the Train Jaune, a 1-meter gauge electric line in the , with the initial section from Villefranche-de-Conflent to Mont-Louis opened in 1910 and the full 63 km route to Latour-de-Carol completed in 1927, which the Midi operated using hydroelectric power from the Têt Valley. Spanning 63 km with steep gradients up to 6%, it connected remote mountain communities and promoted tourism with its viaducts and panoramic views. As of 2025, it continues to operate under as a , serving tourists with its scenic route. The Midi's innovations in electrification and regional development influenced post-war French rail modernization.

Midibus

A is classified as a bus in that exceeds the size of a but falls short of a standard full-size bus, typically measuring 8 to 10 meters in length and accommodating 20 to 35 passengers including the driver. This intermediate sizing positions midibuses as versatile options for routes with moderate demand, bridging the gap between smaller vans and larger coaches. Midibuses emerged in the to serve urban and suburban routes requiring more capacity than minibuses but greater flexibility than full-sized vehicles, with production ramping up in the as manufacturers addressed needs. In the , the , introduced in 1997, became a prominent example as one of the first low-floor midibuses, facilitating easier passenger boarding and widely adopted for city services. Across , models like the Irisbus Europolis, produced from 1996 by the Irisbus manufacturer (formed in 1999 through mergers of , , and divisions), exemplified the category's growth for urban operations in cities such as and . Key advantages of midibuses include superior maneuverability in narrow streets and congested areas compared to larger buses, enabling access to locations where full-sized vehicles cannot operate efficiently. and electric variants contribute to lower emissions, with electric models producing zero tailpipe exhaust to support environmental goals in city centers. As of , electric and midibuses have gained prominence, supporting zero-emission goals in areas across . They are commonly deployed in services for airports, events, and corporate transport, where their compact footprint reduces road congestion while providing reliable short-haul capacity. In the , midibuses must comply with the Weights and Dimensions Directive (EU) 96/53/EC, as amended by Directive (EU) 2015/719, which limits rigid buses to a maximum of 12 meters and sets maximum authorized weights—typically up to 16.5 tonnes for two-axle vehicles—to ensure and infrastructure compatibility. Their popularity has declined in some markets with the proliferation of full-size low-floor buses since the late 1990s, which offer higher capacities and improved for high-demand routes, though midibuses persist in niche and rural applications, including supplementing historical networks in low-density areas.

Geography

Le Midi (Southern France)

Le Midi, a cultural and geographic term for , generally encompasses the areas south of the River, including the historical regions of , , and . The name derives from the French word midi, meaning "midday," rooted in the Latin medius dies, reflecting the region's intense midday sun and warm, sunny climate that distinguishes it from the cooler north. This area is characterized by a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers, fostering a landscape of olive groves, vineyards, and lavender fields. Its cuisine highlights fresh seafood and local produce, exemplified by bouillabaisse, a Provençal fish stew originating from Marseille, and the renowned rosé wines produced in Provence. Linguistically, the region is tied to Occitan, a Romance language historically spoken across much of southern France, which influenced local dialects and literature. Major population centers include Marseille, France's second-largest city and a bustling port on the Mediterranean coast, and Toulouse, a vibrant hub in the region's interior known for its aerospace industry. Historically, Le Midi corresponds closely to the Roman province of , established in 123 BCE and centered around the colony of Narbo Martius (modern ), which served as a key gateway for Roman influence into . This province, often called Provincia Nostra ("Our Province"), encompassed much of what is now southeastern France and was distinct from the northern areas, later termed the Septentrion, highlighting a cultural and climatic divide that persists in French regional identity. In modern usage, Le Midi is prominently featured in tourist branding, promoting its beaches, historic sites, and to attract millions of visitors annually for its sunny weather and . Administratively, it overlaps with the former region, now part of the larger Occitanie since 2016, which integrates these southern territories into contemporary governance.

Midi-Pyrénées

Midi-Pyrénées was a former administrative region in southwestern , encompassing an area of 45,348 km², making it the largest region in by surface area. It bordered to the south, featuring the mountain range along much of that frontier, and included major waterways such as the River, which flows through the region from the toward the Atlantic. The regional capital was , a central hub that anchored the area's urban and economic life. This diverse landscape ranged from rugged mountains in the south to fertile plains and plateaus in the north and east, supporting varied natural and human activities. As part of the broader Le Midi cultural area in , it shared historical ties to Mediterranean and Atlantic influences. Established in 1972 under French law as one of the country's 22 metropolitan regions to promote economic development and administrative efficiency, existed until January 1, 2016, when it merged with the neighboring region to form the larger Occitanie (Pyrénées-Méditerranée). The merger was part of a national territorial reform aimed at streamlining governance and enhancing competitiveness. At its peak around 2015, the region had a of approximately 2.93 million residents, reflecting steady growth driven by and economic opportunities, particularly in centers. The economy of was robust and multifaceted, with the sector serving as a cornerstone, centered in where maintained its European headquarters and major assembly facilities. By 2022, the industry in the former region employed 81,000 people, nearly a fivefold increase from 17,000 in 1982 and accounting for 32.6% of regional industrial employment. Agriculture played a vital role in rural areas, notably through the production of in the department, a traditional spirit distilled from local white wines and aged in oak, emblematic of Gascon heritage. Tourism further bolstered the economy, drawing millions annually to sites like in the , a global pilgrimage destination that welcomed over 3.5 million visitors yearly for its religious significance and Pyrenean setting. Demographically, Midi-Pyrénées exhibited diversity shaped by its border location, with cultural influences from communities in the western and elements in the eastern departments like Ariège, alongside a predominant Occitan and Gascon heritage. The population was concentrated in key urban areas, including with over 450,000 inhabitants as the region's economic engine, and , a historic town and prefecture of with around 60,000 residents, known for its red-brick architecture and role as a secondary administrative center. This urban-rural mix supported a balanced demographic profile, with growth rates among the highest in at about 0.9% annually in the early .

Canal du Midi

The is a historic in , within the Le region, stretching 240 kilometers from the near to , where it connects to the River and ultimately the Atlantic Ocean. Constructed between 1667 and 1681 under the direction of engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet, it was commissioned by King to create an inland navigation route that bypassed the hazardous sea journey around the . Riquet's innovative design addressed significant hydraulic challenges, including sourcing water from the Montagne Noire to maintain levels across the canal's summit at Seuil de Naurouze. In 1996, the canal was inscribed as a for its pioneering role in 17th-century engineering and its contribution to the onset of the . The canal's engineering feats include 63 locks to manage elevation changes, over 100 bridges for road crossings, and the Tunnel of Malpas, the world's first navigable canal tunnel, measuring 157 meters in length and completed in 1680. These elements, part of a total of 328 structures such as aqueducts and weirs, were built to accommodate commercial barges with capacities up to around 130 tons, enabling efficient transport of goods like wine, , and timber. The project's scale involved up to 12,000 workers and overcame terrain obstacles through meticulous planning, including tree-lined banks to reduce and stabilize soil. Originally purposed as a vital artery to facilitate commerce between France's Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts while avoiding maritime risks and tolls at , the canal revolutionized and boosted regional economies. Today, commercial freight has largely ceased, with the waterway primarily supporting recreational boating, , and limited , attracting approximately 10,000 boats annually for leisure cruises. As a enduring symbol of classical engineering ingenuity, the Canal du Midi continues to be maintained and operated by Voies Navigables de France (VNF), a state-owned entity responsible for its preservation, upgrades, and sustainable use since 1991. Its intact 17th-century infrastructure serves as a model for hydraulic innovation, influencing subsequent canal projects across .

Fashion

Midi Skirt

A skirt is a style of women's that typically falls to mid- length, positioned between the and ankle, offering a versatile silhouette that balances coverage and movement. This length generally measures approximately 25 to 35 inches (64 to 89 cm) from the , depending on the wearer's height and proportions, though it ideally avoids ending at the widest part of the for a flattering fit. The skirt emerged in the late 1960s as a direct response to the prevailing trend, which had dominated fashion since its introduction in 1964, but gained widespread prominence in the early amid debates over hemline lengths. Designers like Yves Saint Laurent played a key role in its revival and popularization, notably through his 1971 spring collection inspired by 1940s silhouettes, which featured midi-length skirts as a symbol of elegance and femininity. This period saw significant cultural pushback, including protests by women against the fashion industry's shift toward longer hems, viewing it as a regression from the liberation associated with shorter styles. Earlier precursors to the midi appeared in post-World War II fashion in the , emphasizing modest, feminine forms, but the modern midi as a named category solidified in the . Midi skirts come in diverse styles, including A-line for a flared, feminine shape; pencil for a slim, tailored fit; and pleated for added texture and volume, allowing adaptation to various body types and occasions. Common materials range from structured wool for professional looks to casual denim or lightweight cotton for everyday wear, with silk and satin options enhancing evening ensembles. In contemporary modest fashion trends, midi skirts have gained traction for their ability to provide knee coverage while maintaining stylish versatility, aligning with cultural and religious preferences for longer hemlines without sacrificing modernity. In the , midi skirts have seen a resurgence driven by initiatives, with designers emphasizing -inspired designs using eco-friendly fabrics like , recycled , and upcycled materials to reduce environmental impact. This trend reflects broader fashion shifts toward timeless pieces that promote longevity over , often featuring retro pleats or A-line cuts reimagined in ethical production methods. midi skirts, in particular, have become popular for their adaptability in layering and mixing with contemporary tops, supporting practices.

Midi Dress

The midi dress is a women's garment characterized by a hemline that falls approximately at mid-calf, striking a balance between modesty and elegance while allowing for graceful movement. This length, typically measuring 35 to 45 inches from shoulder to hem depending on the wearer's height, emerged as a practical and sophisticated option in mid-20th-century , distinguishing itself from shorter dresses and longer . The style gained initial traction during the 1940s amid fabric rationing, when designers adapted hemlines to conserve materials while maintaining an air of refined femininity, often incorporating structured shoulders and fitted bodices. It experienced a notable resurgence in the through the fashion movement, where British designer incorporated midi proportions into her collections alongside her iconic minis, blending youthful energy with everyday versatility. By the 2010s, the midi dress saw a revival, influenced by free-spirited prints, flowing silhouettes, and layered accessories that evoked wanderlust, as seen in runway collections from brands like . Variations of the midi dress abound, including the wrap style with its adjustable V-neckline for a flattering drape, the shirt dress featuring button-front detailing for casual polish, and the fit-and-flare design that cinches at the waist before flaring out to accommodate diverse figures. These adaptations make the midi dress ideal for day-to-night transitions, pairing seamlessly with for office wear or heels for evening events. Iconic figures like exemplified its timeless appeal in the , donning mid-calf versions in elegant fabrics like that highlighted her slender . Culturally, the midi dress promotes inclusivity by accommodating a range of body types through adjustable fits and elongating lines that enhance proportions without restriction. Its popularity in reflects this versatility, with the global midi dress market valued at $8.2 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $14.6 billion by 2033, driven by online demand for adaptable, mid-length styles. This enduring garment shares its defining mid-calf standard with the midi skirt, underscoring a consistent approach to balanced proportions in .

Other Uses

Berliner Newspaper Format

The Berliner format, also known as the "midi" format in print media, is a newspaper page size measuring 470 mm × 315 mm (18.5 in × 12.4 in), positioning it between the larger (typically around 750 mm × 600 mm) and the smaller tabloid (around 400 mm × 300 mm). This intermediate dimension allows for a balance of and portability, often printed on higher-quality to support detailed layouts. The format originated in Germany, gaining popularity in Berlin during the early 1900s as a practical alternative to broader sheets, influenced by the needs of the German language's longer words and traditional Fraktur typeface, which required wider columns for legibility. It became a standard in continental Europe with the advent of rotary presses before World War I, offering an efficient option for mass production. In the United Kingdom, The Guardian adopted the Berliner format on September 12, 2005, investing £80 million in new presses to transition from broadsheet, citing improved handling and aesthetic appeal for readers. Similarly, the French newspaper Le Monde switched to Berliner in 1989 to enhance its visual presentation while maintaining journalistic depth. These adoptions highlighted the format's versatility in modern printing. Key advantages include easier folding and transport compared to broadsheets, facilitating public reading on commutes, as well as superior accommodation for color images and advertising without compromising text density. The taller, narrower pages support three-column layouts that improve navigation and reduce eye strain, making it particularly suitable for in-depth reporting. Despite these benefits, the Berliner format has faced decline amid the digital shift, with print circulations dropping significantly; for instance, The Guardian's sales fell from 341,000 in 2005 to 154,000 by 2017, prompting a switch to tabloid in 2018 for cost savings. As of 2025, remaining users such as Le Monde and Italy's La Repubblica continue to use the format, emphasizing its role in enhancing readability and tactile experience in an era dominated by online news.)

Midi (length measurement)

The term "midi" in the context of length measurement refers to an intermediate size or dimension, positioned between shorter ("mini") and longer ("maxi") variants across various domains. It derives from the English prefix "mid-," indicating a middle position, as seen in its fashion origins where "midiskirt" was formed by combining "mid-" with "miniskirt" in the mid-1960s. This usage emphasizes balanced proportions rather than extremes, adapting to practical and aesthetic needs in design and engineering. In computing hardware, midi towers (also termed mid-towers) represent an intermediate PC case size, accommodating standard motherboards and moderate component loads between compact mini towers and expansive full towers. These uses highlight "midi" as a descriptor for practical, middle-ground specifications in mid-tier technology products. There is no universal for "midi" measurements, as definitions vary by and ; for instance, midi tower cases typically feature dimensions around 16-20 inches in height for balanced and expandability. This lack of fixed metrics allows flexibility, tailored to user needs like component in tech. The concept of "" lengths gained significant traction in the late 1960s and 1970s, influencing its adoption in diverse fields for harmonious, non-extreme scaling.