Image format
What is a AVIF file?
AVIF is a newer, next-generation image format built on the AV1 video codec, delivering some of the smallest file sizes available today.
AVIF takes the intra-frame compression from the royalty-free AV1 video codec and repurposes it for still images, and the result is often noticeably smaller than an equivalent WebP or JPEG at the same visual quality. It also supports wide color gamuts, HDR, and transparency, making it one of the more technically complete image formats available. The tradeoff is encoding speed and, until recently, patchier software support — both are improving quickly as browsers and operating systems catch up.
How to open a AVIF file
AVIF files open readily in Chrome, Firefox, Edge, Safari (recent versions). For real editing rather than just viewing, reach for GIMP (recent versions), Affinity Photo.
Some older photo viewers and editors need an add-on or a recent update to open AVIF directly.
Strengths & limitations
Good for
- often 50% smaller than PNG or JPG at visually similar quality
- supports transparency and HDR
Watch out for
- slower to encode
- not yet supported everywhere older software runs
Convert AVIF files
Orbfile can convert AVIF both ways, entirely in your browser — pick a direction below:
Frequently asked questions
What does a AVIF file contain?+
AVIF is a newer, next-generation image format built on the AV1 video codec, delivering some of the smallest file sizes available today.
Can I convert AVIF for free?+
Yes — Orbfile's image converter handles AVIF for free, with no file limit, watermark, or account, and it runs entirely in your browser.
Is converting a AVIF file safe and private?+
Yes. Orbfile processes AVIF files locally on your device using WebAssembly — nothing is uploaded to a server, so there's nothing to leak or store.
Who created the AVIF format?+
AVIF was developed by Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia), first released around 2019.
Browse the full file format guide.