What is WebP?

Introduced by Google in 2010 [1], WebP has emerged as a game-changing image format, revolutionizing the way we store and transmit digital images online. By employing a combination of lossy and lossless compression techniques, WebP effectively minimizes file sizes while preserving image quality.

Outperform JPG, PNG

One of the standout advantages of WebP lies in its remarkable compression capabilities, outperforming other popular image formats like JPEG and PNG. Through efficient file size reduction, WebP empowers websites and web applications to achieve faster load times and reduced bandwidth consumption, ultimately delivering a seamless user experience. In fact, WebP boasts an average compression advantage of approximately 30% over formats like JPEG and JPEG 2000, all while maintaining image integrity.

Transparency, a sought-after feature among image formats, is fully supported by WebP, comparable to the capabilities of PNG. With the inclusion of an alpha channel, WebP enables partial transparency, allowing for superior image compression. Moreover, WebP embraces animation, making it an exceptional choice for creating captivating animated images and banners.

Native support with modern browser

WebP's widespread adoption is further fueled by its native support across various web browsers [2]. Internet powerhouses such as Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, and Safari have integrated WebP into their platforms, providing seamless compatibility for users. Consequently, a growing number of websites have embraced this innovative format, recognizing its potential to enhance image delivery and optimize web performance.

In conclusion, WebP stands at the forefront of image compression technology, offering unrivaled efficiency for storing and transmitting images on the web. With its superior compression capabilities, support for transparency and animation, and wide browser compatibility, WebP has swiftly gained traction among web developers and content creators. As the digital landscape continues to evolve, WebP holds immense promise in shaping the future of web imagery.

References:
1: Google Developers - An image format for the Web
2. Caniuse.com - WebP image format