Next-Gen Image Formats: WebP and AVIF
WebP and AVIF are modern image formats designed to produce much smaller files than the older JPEG and PNG formats, while keeping the same visual quality. Smaller files mean faster pages and lower data costs for your visitors.
This article explains where each format fits and how we make sure older browsers still see your images.
Why It Matters to You
Switching image formats is invisible to visitors but valuable to your bottom line. The same pictures simply weigh far less, which means faster pages and lower hosting and bandwidth costs.
- Smaller files mean quicker loads on every device.
- Lower bandwidth use can reduce hosting costs.
- Better speed supports both SEO and conversion.
- No visible change in image quality for visitors.
How We Roll Them Out
Adopting modern formats does not mean re-exporting every image by hand. We automate the process so that images are converted and served correctly without adding work for your team.
- Generate modern format versions automatically when images are uploaded.
- Serve the best format each browser supports.
- Fall back to JPEG or PNG for older browsers.
- Keep the originals so nothing is ever lost.
How They Compare
AVIF generally produces the smallest files, WebP is a well-supported middle ground, and JPEG/PNG remain the universal fallback.
| Format | Typical saving | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| AVIF | Up to 50% vs JPEG | Photos, hero images |
| WebP | 25–35% vs JPEG | General use, broad support |
| JPEG | Baseline | Universal fallback |
| PNG | Baseline | Logos, transparency |
Frequently Asked Questions
What if a visitor's browser does not support AVIF?
We serve the modern format to browsers that support it and automatically fall back to JPEG or PNG for the rest, so nobody sees a broken image.
Will switching formats reduce image quality?
No. The goal is the same quality at a much smaller file size, not a visible reduction in sharpness.
If you need a hand with any of this, your Progressive Robot delivery team is ready to help. Raise a ticket from the Support area of your client portal or speak to your account manager and we will guide you through the next steps.