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1 July 2023
Reading Time: 3 minutes

Unlocking the Power of AVIF: Revolutionizing Website Optimisation


Web Optimisation Takes a Quantum Leap with AVIF.

What Are AVIFs and Why Do They Matter?

Website Speed Optimisation has just become a little more advanced. Developers like myself have always resized and compressed the images and saved them as JPG or WebP file formats in order to reduce the page load time. Because a majority of the website speed issues are due to bloat from massive unscaled images on the website front end. There are a plethora of other factors, but I always start by analyzing the waterfall and determining what needs priority care, and this almost always leads to me resizing images and replacing the old with the new files.

AVIF: The Superhero of Image Files

AVIF files boast more advanced technology that enables developers to convert the files and save up to 80% on image bloat. The biggest benefit of using image files with AVIF extensions is that the person downloading an image of your website will need to go through a few steps before they can use it. Of course, I can implement a no-right-click script to prevent copycats from grabbing the images but anyone with Google and loads of time can figure out how to still access the images and download them.

Exploring AVIF: A Game-Changing Image Format

The AV1 Image Format, sometimes known as AVIF, is the most recent image codec on the continent. AVIF is an optimized picture format that was developed to reduce the size of our photographs while maintaining their quality (lossless). The AVIF file extension is .avif.

Why AVIF Reigns Supreme: Unveiling the Advantages

AVIF's Superiority in Compression Efficiency

AVIF is compatible with high-dynamic-range imaging, like its predecessors (WebP, JPEG-XR, JPEG2000, and PNG, GIF). It supports full-resolution 10- and 12-bit colours, resulting in images that are up to ten times smaller than competing formats.

Embracing AVIF: A Web Developer's Dream

For web developers, AVIF is a fantastic opportunity because:

  1. You could use it without worrying about the license since it is royalty-free.
  2. It is now funded by a number of major tech companies, including Google, Amazon, Netflix, Microsoft, and others.
  3. It has the highest compression ratio.
  4. Transparency, HDR, a large color gamut, and other contemporary technologies are included.

Incorporating AVIF Into Your Website: A How-To Guide

AVIF and Browser Compatibility

AVIF is a technology that is still in its infancy. However, most current browsers now accept the format, thus it may be used straight in the <img> tag. Keep in mind that not all browsers support the format fully presently. The most effective approach to using AVIF is through content negotiation. It is possible to employ HTML 5's <img> and <source> tags, both of which enable content negotiation.

AVIF Compatibility with Major Browsers

Which browsers are AVIF compatible?

  • Chrome 85 is the first browser to fully support AVIF.
  • The "19H1" upgrades for Microsoft Windows 10 also introduced support.
  • In Firefox, Mozilla is still working on adding support for the picture format.

Final Thoughts

Unleash the Full Potential of AVIF

With AVIF, you're equipped with a powerful tool to enhance your website's visual experience. By adopting this innovative image format, you'll benefit from improved compression and higher-quality images. It's time to unlock the full potential of AVIF and take your web development to new heights!

Ready to give your images the AVIF treatment? Contact me, and together, we'll transform your visuals into lean, mean AVIF files that'll leave your competitors green with envy. Let's rock the web optimisation game like never before!

Contact me today to convert your images to AVIF files.
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Article written by Anri de Beer
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