Avif image format - what is it? How you should use it?

The tech world is constantly evolving, and new trends emerge every once in a while. Recently, there has been a lot of buzz about a new image format known as AVIF. While it is not entirely new, it is gaining popularity now, and people have started asking questions about it. In this article, we will explore what the AVIF image format is and how you should use it.

What is AVIF? AVIF stands for AV1 Image Format. Just like the AV1 video codec, the AVIF image format is developed by the Alliance for Open Media. It is based on the AV1 video codec and uses the same compression technology known as the AOMedia Video codec (AV1). AVIF is a next-generation image format that is designed to replace the traditional JPEG format.

How does it work? AVIF uses a new compression algorithm that ensures high-quality images with small file sizes. It is based on the same technology that is used in video compression. This means that AVIF images contain less information than JPEG images, making them smaller in size. The smaller size makes them ideal for use on the web, especially on mobile devices, where a fast connection is crucial.

Why should you use it? There are several reasons why you should consider using the AVIF format:

1. Small file sizes – As mentioned earlier, AVIF images have smaller file sizes, making them ideal for websites and mobile devices.
2. High quality – Despite the smaller file size, AVIF images have excellent image quality.
3. Versatility – AVIF can handle a variety of image types, including still images and animated images.
4. Efficiency – Unlike the traditional JPEG format, which can only achieve a certain level of compression before losing image quality, AVIF offers an efficient compression algorithm that can compress images without losing quality.

How can you use it? If you want to use the AVIF format on your website, you will need to ensure that your browser supports it. Currently, only Firefox and Chrome support AVIF images. However, other browsers are expected to support it soon. You will also need to convert your images to the AVIF format. You can use an online converter or use a tool like ImageMagick or Adobe Photoshop.

In conclusion, AVIF is a new image format that offers high-quality images with small file sizes, making them ideal for use on websites and mobile devices. If you want to stay ahead of the curve and ensure that your website is optimized for the future, you should consider using the AVIF format.