How to Open AVIF Files on Windows, Mac, and Phone
Cannot open an .avif image? Learn what AVIF is, why it will not open in some apps, and 4 easy ways to view it or convert it to PNG or JPG.
You downloaded an image and the file ends in `.avif`. You double-click it and nothing happens, or an app says it cannot open this file type. AVIF is useful for websites, but not every app supports it yet.
Convert Open AVIF Files on Windows, Mac, and Phone now — free and online.
Open the ConverterQuick Answer
Drag the AVIF file into a modern browser like Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari to view it. To use it in another program, convert it with the AVIF to PNG converter.
What Is an AVIF File?
AVIF is a newer image format designed for the web. It can create smaller files than JPG, PNG, and sometimes WebP while keeping good quality. That helps websites load faster.
The downside is compatibility. Modern browsers support AVIF, but older photo viewers, older editing software, email tools, print services, and upload forms may not.
Why AVIF Will Not Open
- Your default photo viewer does not support AVIF.
- Windows may need an extension to show thumbnails or previews.
- Your editor is older and cannot import AVIF.
- A website upload form accepts only JPG, PNG, or PDF.
- Renaming `.avif` to `.png` does not change the file format.
Method 1: Open AVIF in a Browser
This is the quickest way to view the image.
1. Open Chrome, Edge, Firefox, or Safari. 2. Open a new tab. 3. Drag the AVIF file into the tab. 4. The image should display in the browser.
If it does not work, update your browser. This method is for viewing only; it does not make the file compatible with other apps.
Method 2: Convert AVIF to PNG or JPG
Use conversion when you need to edit, upload, print, or share the image.
1. Open the AVIF to PNG converter. 2. Upload your AVIF file. 3. Click convert. 4. Download the PNG.
Choose PNG when you need transparency or sharp graphics. Choose JPG when it is a normal photo and you want a smaller file.
Method 3: Add AVIF Support on Windows
Some Windows versions can open AVIF files in the Photos app after installing Microsoft's AV1 Video Extension from the Microsoft Store. This mainly helps with viewing. If your upload form or editor still rejects AVIF, convert the file instead.
Method 4: Update Your Software
Newer image editors and viewers are gradually adding AVIF support. Check for updates if your app cannot open the file. If updating is not possible, conversion is faster and more reliable.
What Happens After Converting
| Item | What happens |
|---|---|
| Quality | PNG conversion does not add extra visible quality loss. |
| File size | PNG is usually much bigger than AVIF. |
| Transparency | PNG keeps transparent backgrounds. JPG does not. |
| Compatibility | PNG and JPG work in far more apps and upload forms. |
Best Solution
Use your browser to preview AVIF files and convert them when you need to use them elsewhere. This works on Windows, Mac, Android, and iPhone without depending on special desktop software.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AVIF file?
AVIF is a modern image format that creates small files with good quality. Websites use it to improve page speed.
Which programs can open AVIF?
Modern browsers can open AVIF. Some newer image viewers and editors can too, but older programs often cannot.
Can I open AVIF on iPhone?
Recent iOS versions can show many AVIF images. If your device or app cannot, convert the file to PNG or JPG.
Is AVIF better than JPG?
For websites, AVIF can be better because files are smaller. For sharing and uploading, JPG is safer because support is universal.
Can I rename .avif to .png?
No. Renaming changes the label only. Convert the file to change the actual format.
Does AVIF support transparency?
Yes. Convert to PNG if you want to keep a transparent background in a widely supported format.
Ready to convert? Open the AVIF To PNG Converter.
Start Converting