What is AVIF
AVIF (AV1 image format) is a new open-source, royalty-free multi-channel image format. Compared with JPEG, PNG, and WebP images, AVIF images offer significantly smaller file sizes. They are currently compatible with Chrome, Firefox, and Android devices. It is based on the keyframes of the video format AV1, developed by the Alliance for Open Media (AOMedia) in collaboration with Google, Cisco, and Xiph.org. The AVIF format is already receiving considerable attention. Netflix states that it has better image quality and reduced file size than JPEG, PNG, and WebP formats. AVIF is a fascinating development with the potential to be widely adopted. JPEG has been around for decades, and there is a need for new advanced alternatives.
What is IrfanView
IrfanView is a free Microsoft Windows program that can view, edit, organize, and convert images. Aside from playing video and audio files, it can also create and paint pictures. A free version of IrfanView is available for non-commercial use; one must register a commercial version. The program can handle various graphic file formats due to its small size, speed, and ease of use. The first release was in 1996.
IrfanView supports AVIF
IrfanView comes with a bunch of plugins. One is the plugin 'Tools', which contains additional functions and features. Especially reading special formats like HEIF and AVIF is supported. However, you will not be able to convert images to the AVIF format. Also, you must ensure you have the Windows Extension for AVIF installed. You can find an article about the extension in our Windows tutorial.