How to Open and View AVIF Files

Before you start

AVIF is an image format based on the AV1 video codec. It stores one or more still images in a small file and is used by some cameras, phones, web services and image tools. Opening an AVIF file works locally on your device and does not require uploading it to an online service. Keep the original file unchanged and work from a copy if you plan to convert or edit it.

First confirm the file extension or file type. Some image tools report AVIF files as image/avif. If the file has a different extension, renaming it will not convert it and may prevent the file from opening.

Step-by-step instructions

Use the method that matches your device. The available options depend on the operating system version and the image applications already installed.

Windows

• Double-click the AVIF file and let Windows choose the default Photos app.
• If the image does not appear, right-click the file, select Open with and choose Photos or another listed image viewer.
• For an unsupported older version of Windows, install the official AV1 Video Extension from the Microsoft Store, then try opening the file again.
• Alternatively, open the file in an installed program that lists AVIF support, such as a current image editor or viewer.

Version support matters. Newer builds of Windows 10 and Windows 11 include AVIF support through the Photos path when the required AV1 extension is present. Without the extension, File Explorer may show a file icon but the viewer cannot decode the image.

macOS

• Select the AVIF file in Finder.
• Press the Space bar to preview it with Quick Look.
• To open it for editing, right-click the file, choose Open With and select Preview or another compatible app.
• If the image does not open, check whether your macOS version or installed app supports AVIF.

Support differs by macOS release and application. If Quick Look shows a blank preview, avoid guessing menu paths in other software; check the application's supported formats in its help or product information.

Linux

• Open the AVIF file in a current image viewer that lists AVIF support.
• If the default viewer cannot decode the file, install its AVIF plug-in using your distribution's package manager.
• For GNOME-based viewers, the required plug-in may be provided by a package such as the libheif or AVIF loader package for that viewer.

Android and iPhone

• Tap the image in a photo or files app that lists AVIF support.
• If the preview is missing, open the file from a current file manager or image viewer that supports AVIF.
• Do not rename the file to change its format; use an app with AVIF export or conversion support if you need a different format.

Check the output

A successful result is a visible, correctly colored image with no decode error. Check that the whole picture appears and that transparent areas show the expected background rather than black or solid color. If the image opens only after conversion, confirm the result keeps the original dimensions, orientation and color appearance.

AVIF viewing can depend on decoder support, color profile handling and operating system version. An application may open the file but display a low-resolution preview while the full image is decoding. Compare the displayed image with a known copy only when you need to confirm color or detail; do not use a screenshot alone as proof of format compatibility.

Common problems and next steps

If the AVIF file does not open, the usual cause is missing decoder support in the viewer or operating system. Install or update the viewer that is supposed to handle AVIF instead of repeatedly double-clicking the file. When an older program ignores the file, use a current supported viewer or convert the file with a tool that explicitly lists AVIF input support.

If the file opens but displays incorrectly, try a different compatible viewer before assuming the file is damaged. A lack of color profile support can change how colors appear, and a partially downloaded or transferred file can produce a decode error. Re-copy the file from its original source and test again.

Do not delete the original after a failed conversion. Keep the source file, correct the conversion setting, and repeat the process from the original rather than converting an already converted copy.

Finding an AVIF viewer

The searches for an AVIF viewer, opening an AVIF file, or opening AVIF files lead to the same practical question: which local program can decode the image. Check the product page or documentation for AVIF or AV1 still-image support before installing or purchasing tools.