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What is AVIF?
The next-generation image format explained
What is AVIF?
AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) is a modern image format that offers superior compression compared to older formats like JPEG and PNG. It was developed by the Alliance for Open Media and is based on the AV1 video codec.
Key Features
- Superior Compression: AVIF can achieve the same visual quality as JPEG at 50% smaller file sizes
- High Quality: Supports 10-bit and 12-bit color depth for stunning HDR images
- Transparency: Full alpha channel support like PNG
- Animation: Can store animated images like GIF but with much better compression
- Wide Color Gamut: Supports HDR and wide color spaces
Browser Support
Every major browser released since 2022 decodes AVIF natively, so you rarely need a fallback anymore. For exact version numbers and mobile coverage, see the full AVIF browser support guide.
When to Use AVIF
AVIF is ideal for:
- Web images where file size matters
- Photography and complex images
- Images requiring transparency
- HDR content
- Replacing both JPEG and PNG in many use cases