What is a .AVIF file? (How to open & convert)

Learn what .AVIF is, how to open it, and use an embedded local-only tool for common tasks.

Overview

.AVIF AVIF is a cutting-edge image format that offers significantly better compression than JPG, PNG, and even WebP. Backed by companies like Google, Netflix, and Apple, it is designed to make the web faster. While highly efficient, many older image editors and operating systems still cannot open AVIF files natively.

Basic info

Full name: AV1 Image File Format
Developer: Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia)
Category: Image

How to open a .AVIF file

On macOS: Natively supported in macOS Ventura and later via Safari and Preview.

On Windows: Supported by Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. Requires the 'AV1 Video Extension' from the Microsoft Store for native Windows Photo app support.

On mobile: Standard on Android 12+ and iOS 16+. Older mobile versions may fail to display AVIF images.

Try a related tool

Use a local-only tool (no uploads) for common tasks.

Image Compressor / Converter Video / Audio Converter PDF Tools

Related extensions

Browse similar formats in the Wiki.

.WEBP .HEIC .SVG

Technical characteristics

Uses the AV1 video codec for image compression.
Supports High Dynamic Range (HDR) and 10-bit or 12-bit color depth.
Achieves up to 50% smaller file sizes than JPG for similar quality.

Common scenarios

Converting modern web images back to JPG for compatibility with older software.
Optimizing website assets to achieve the highest possible Google PageSpeed scores.
Sharing high-quality HDR photos while keeping the file size small for messaging apps.

Security notes

Safe. AVIF is a modern image format designed with security in mind, utilizing robust AV1 decoding libraries.