What is GIF?
GIF is one of the oldest image formats still in widespread use. It uses lossless LZW compression and supports up to 256 colors per frame. Its key feature is the ability to store multiple frames, creating simple animations that loop continuously.
While GIF has been largely superseded by more modern formats for static images, it remains the most popular format for short, looping animations on social media and messaging platforms.
History
GIF was created by CompuServe in 1987 to provide a color image format for their file downloading areas.
- 1987: GIF87a released
- 1989: GIF89a adds animation and transparency
- 1990s: Patent controversy with LZW compression
- 2000s: Becomes internet culture phenomenon
Key Features
- Animation: Multiple frames support
- 256 Colors: Per frame palette
- Transparency: 1-bit (on/off)
- Lossless: LZW compression
- Looping: Continuous playback
- Universal: Supported everywhere
Common Uses
- Short looping animations
- Reaction images and memes
- Animated logos
- Loading indicators
- Social media content
- Simple graphics with few colors
Advantages
- Animation without plugins
- Universal compatibility
- Simple to create
- Transparent backgrounds
- Auto-plays in browsers
Limitations
- Limited to 256 colors per frame
- Large file sizes for animations
- No audio support
- Poor compression for photos
- Binary transparency only
Technical Information
GIF uses LZW lossless compression and can store multiple images in a single file for animation. Each frame can have its own 256-color palette.
| File extension | .gif |
| MIME type | image/gif |
| Developed by | CompuServe |
| First released | 1987 |
| Compression | Lossless (LZW) |
| Colors | Up to 256 per frame |
| Animation | Supported |