Adaptive Headlights
Adaptive headlights are headlamp systems that automatically change beam direction or light distribution in response to driving and traffic conditions.
What can adapt
A curve-adaptive system can swivel the beam according to steering angle, yaw, or vehicle speed so more light follows the road through a bend. Broader adaptive front-lighting systems can select different distributions for town, country-road, motorway, or adverse-weather driving. Camera-based functions may also change the long-range beam when other road users are detected. HELLA Tech World: adaptive headlights and AFS
The available behavior depends on the installed sensors, lamp hardware, control software, and vehicle configuration. Accurate headlamp aim, levelling, and calibration remain necessary even when the beam is controlled electronically.
Important distinction
Adaptive headlights is an umbrella term. It does not identify one specific mechanism or guarantee an adaptive driving beam. One system may only turn the low beam into a curve, while another can vary the shape of the beam or reduce selected areas around traffic.
Matrix LED describes one segmented lamp architecture that can support adaptive functions; it is not a synonym for every adaptive headlight. Matrix LED Headlights
For the detailed differences between curve lighting, adaptive front-lighting, automatic high beam, adaptive driving beam, and projection systems, see Headlights, daytime running lights and adaptive beams.