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

AVIF is now supported by all major browsers:

Chrome 85+
Firefox 93+
Safari 16+
Edge 85+
Opera 71+

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