What is heif?

HEIF (High-Efficiency Image Format) is a relatively new image file format that was introduced by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) in 2015. This format is designed to replace the widely used JPEG format, and it offers many advantages over it. HEIF is capable of storing both images and videos in a single file, allowing for efficient storage and sharing of images and videos on mobile devices.

HEIF uses advanced compression techniques such as High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) and other modern encoding techniques that provide better image quality than JPEG while requiring less storage space. It can store multiple images and videos, along with other related metadata, in a single file. HEIF also supports editing and non-destructive processing, which means that users can make changes to an image without losing its original quality.

HEIF is currently supported by most popular operating systems like iOS, macOS, Android, Windows, and Linux, as well as by many photo-editing software programs. HEIF is rapidly gaining popularity due to its ability to deliver better image quality in smaller file sizes, as well as its support for a wide range of features such as HDR, Live Photos, and animated images.