| Extension | .heif |
| Category | images |
| Description | The High Efficiency Image Format (HEIF), specifically designed for still images and image sequences, was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG). Its design is based on the High Efficiency Video Coding (HEVC) compression algorithm and uses the .heif or .heic file extensions. |
| Technical details | HEIF is an improvement over previous image formats, such as JPEG. It employs more efficient compression algorithms, resulting in smaller file sizes while maintaining image quality. Furthermore, HEIF can support features like transparency, alpha channels, and multiple images (like burst photos or Live Photos on iOS devices) within a single file. Opening HEIF files requires compatible software; popular image viewing and editing software like Apple Photos, Adobe Photoshop, and GIMP are examples. However, older software may not support HEIF natively. In these cases, users need to convert their files to a compatible format before use. |
