"16-bit" refers to a type of computer architecture that processes data in 16-bit chunks. This means that the computer can handle 65,536 different values at once, which is a significant improvement over 8-bit systems. Many early video game consoles, like the Super Nintendo Entertainment System, used 16-bit technology, allowing for more complex graphics and sound compared to their 8-bit predecessors. In addition to gaming, 16-bit systems were common in personal computers during the late 1980s and early 1990s. They enabled better multitasking and improved performance for applications, making them popular for tasks like word processing and simple graphic design. Overall, 16-bit technology played a crucial role in the evolution of computing.