WEBP file format
| Extension | .webp |
| Category | images |
| Programs | Adobe Photoshop Picasa |
| Main program | Google Chrome |
| Description | In 2010, Google introduced the WEBP format for images. According to Google, this format can yield files that are up to 34% smaller than those in JPEG or PNG formats. The WEBP format allows for the storage of images using both lossy and lossless compression techniques. However, not every image viewer is compatible with the WEBP format. |
| Technical details | The lossy compression within the WEBP format is achieved using a prediction-based process. This technique involves segmenting the image into blocks and making predictions based on the pixels in surrounding blocks. The difference between the original image and the prediction is then encoded. This prediction is accurate enough that no noticeable difference is seen from the original image, effectively reducing the file size. Conversely, lossless compression uses previously analyzed parts of the image to reconstruct the remaining image sections. The accuracy of the prediction ensures no perceptible difference compared to the original image. This effectively reduces the file size without compromising image quality. |
| MIME type | image/webp |