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Summary here
AVIF Upload Support
Enable AVIF image uploads in WordPress. AVIF offers superior compression compared to JPEG and WebP — up to 50% smaller files with equal or better quality.
Use Cases
- Reduce image file sizes by 30-50% compared to WebP without quality loss
- Speed up page loads with smaller, next-generation image files
- Maintain high visual quality for photography and design-focused sites
How It Works
This is a toggle module — enable it and AVIF uploads just work. No configuration needed.
When enabled:
- AVIF files can be uploaded to your media library
- Mime type is properly recognized and validated
- Thumbnails display correctly in the media grid
- All WordPress image functions work with AVIF files
Where to Find It
Enable in Switchboard → Media → AVIF Upload Support. Once active, upload AVIF files through the standard media library interface.
What is AVIF?
AVIF (AV1 Image File Format) is a modern image format based on the AV1 video codec. It offers:
| Feature | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Superior compression | 50% smaller than JPEG at similar quality |
| Better than WebP | 20-30% smaller than WebP in most cases |
| Wide color support | HDR and wide gamut colors |
| Transparency support | Like PNG, supports alpha channels |
Browser Support
AVIF is supported in:
- Chrome 85+ (August 2020)
- Firefox 93+ (October 2021)
- Edge 121+ (January 2024)
- Safari 16.4+ (March 2023)
- Opera 71+
Older browsers don’t support AVIF. Consider using the <picture> element with fallback formats, or serve AVIF only when you know your audience uses modern browsers.
Creating AVIF Images
To create AVIF files:
| Tool | Notes |
|---|---|
| Squoosh.app | Free browser-based converter |
| Photoshop 23+ | Native support with recent versions |
| GIMP 2.10+ | With plugin |
| ImageMagick | Command line: convert input.jpg output.avif |
| FFmpeg | Command line encoder |
File Size Comparison
Typical file sizes for the same visual quality:
| Format | Example Size | Savings vs JPEG |
|---|---|---|
| JPEG | 100 KB | — |
| WebP | 70 KB | 30% smaller |
| AVIF | 50 KB | 50% smaller |
Results vary by image content. AVIF excels with photos and complex images.
Limitations
- Encoding is slow — AVIF takes longer to generate than JPEG/WebP
- Older browsers — No support in IE, older Safari, or legacy browsers
- Server requirements — Some hosts may need ImageMagick updates for thumbnail generation
FAQ
Do AVIF thumbnails generate automatically?
Yes. WordPress generates all registered thumbnail sizes for AVIF uploads just like other image formats. Ensure your server has ImageMagick with AVIF support, or GD library 7.4+ with AVIF.Should I convert all my images to AVIF?
Not necessarily. AVIF is best for new content when you know your audience uses modern browsers. For maximum compatibility, use WebP with JPEG fallbacks, or use a CDN that handles format negotiation automatically.Why can’t I upload AVIF without this module?
WordPress doesn’t include AVIF in its default allowed upload types. This module adds the proper mime type registration and ensures AVIF files are recognized as valid images.Will this affect my existing images?
No. This module only enables new AVIF uploads. Your existing JPEG, PNG, and WebP images remain unchanged.Can I use AVIF with the WebP Conversion module?
They serve different purposes. WebP Conversion converts existing uploads to WebP format. AVIF Support allows uploading files that are already in AVIF format. They can be used together without conflict.What if my host doesn’t support AVIF thumbnails?
If your server’s image library can’t process AVIF, thumbnails won’t generate properly. Contact your host about updating ImageMagick, or use a cloud-based image processing service.PRO
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