Windows users can now take advantage of the JPEG-XL image extension, and it’s incredibly easy to get started. All you need to do is download the extension from the official Microsoft Store. With this extension, you’ll be able to save and view files with the “.jxl” extension, which is a game-changer for anyone looking to reduce file sizes without sacrificing image quality. Plus, if you have existing JPEG files, you can convert them to the lossless XL format, which can significantly reduce their size. And if needed, you can always convert them back to the original JPEG format.
To use the JPEG-XL extension, you’ll need to be running Windows 11 24H2. Once you’ve downloaded the extension, you’re good to go. The installed extension enables seamless conversion of existing JPEG files to the XL format, allowing for substantial reductions in file size. This flexibility is a major advantage, as it gives users the freedom to work with their images in the format that best suits their needs.
One of the most significant benefits of JPEG XL is its ability to optimize images for web environments, making it possible to display content on a wide range of devices. The format, defined by ISO/IEC 18181, has been designed to meet the demands of internet and professional photography, addressing the limitations of the aging JPEG format. With support for a broad color spectrum (32-bit) and high-bit-depth images, as well as features like animation, alpha channels, layers, thumbnails, and lossless and progressive coding, JPEG XL is poised to cover a wide range of modern applications.
The new format boasts significantly better image quality and compression rates than its predecessor, and its codec is designed for efficient encoding and decoding. What’s more, the codec doesn’t rely on additional hardware acceleration, making it particularly suited for mobile devices. This means that whether you’re working on a desktop or a mobile device, you can enjoy the benefits of JPEG XL without worrying about hardware constraints.
Further Advantages of JPEG XL
In addition to its impressive compression capabilities, JPEG XL offers a range of features that make it an attractive choice for anyone working with images. Its support for a wide color gamut and high-bit-depth images ensures that your photos will look stunning, regardless of the device they’re displayed on. And with features like animation and alpha channels, you’ll have more creative freedom than ever before.
If you’re interested in learning more about the future of image formats, be sure to check out our article on the topic. We explore the reasons why JPEG is being replaced and introduce you to the exciting new formats that are vying to take its place.
- Find out why JPG is dying and meet its successors