When utilizing Python's input() function, what is returned?

The input() function in Python is specifically designed to read data entered by the user through the console. Regardless of the type of data inputted, the return value of this function is always a string. This is a fundamental characteristic of the input() function, emphasizing that it captures whatever the user types as a sequence of characters.

When using input(), if a user expects to input a numerical value (like an integer or a float), they must manually convert that string to the appropriate type using functions like int() or float(). This design choice allows for greater flexibility, as the user can provide any string input they wish, and it's up to the programmer to process and validate that data accordingly.

In summary, input() always returns data in string format, making it essential to convert the data type after input when necessary.