Single coil pickups are a type of electric guitar pickup that use a single coil of wire wrapped around a magnet to convert string vibrations into electrical signals. They are known for their bright, clear tone and are commonly found in guitars like the Fender Stratocaster and Telecaster. These pickups are sensitive to higher frequencies, which gives them a sharp sound, making them popular in genres like rock, blues, and country. However, single coil pickups can also pick up electromagnetic interference, leading to a phenomenon known as hum, which can be a drawback in certain settings.