GIF Full Form

GIF Full Form

Edited By Team Careers360 | Updated on Mar 02, 2023 11:33 AM IST

What is the full form of GIF?

GIF full form is Graphics Interchange Format. It is a popular file format on social media for sending several messages. These have become more and more common and used in the digital world. The best thing about Gif is that it has the shortest file size of any animated image format. It has a video-like effect because the series of images plays continuously on a loop. However, unlike video, it does not necessitate that the user continuously presses and plays the image. The unique aspect is that there is no sound; instead, the image heavily relies on motion and animation to convey the message. The file's modest size makes sharing across many user interfaces simple and quick.

This Story also Contains
  1. What is the full form of GIF?
  2. What is GIF?
  3. Versions of GIF
  4. Uses of GIFs
GIF Full Form
GIF Full Form

What is GIF?

The GIFs were created or designed for accelerating the download of graphics and as a replacement for the monochrome format of file download with a coloured format. Graphic Interchange Format, more commonly abbreviated "gif," is what GIF stands for. It was invented by Steve Wilhite, a US-based software writer in 1987. It has been made as the Raster File. A single file of GIF contains 256 indexed colours and up to 8 bits per pixel. The GIF can also be created using a basic picture. It also allows any image format to be combined for creating several animations.

Versions of GIF

Generally, GIFs have two versions, namely First Version and Second Version.

1. First Version: GIF 87a was introduced in 1987.

2. Second Version: GIF 89a, the standard and extended version prevalent to date was introduced in the year 1989.

Uses of GIFs

Some common uses of GIFs are as follows:

1. GIFs are used on the web as support for basic animations.

2. For exhibiting logos and various graphics.

3. These are also used in online animations and memes in the current era.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who invented GIF and when?

The GIF tool was invented  by Steve Wilhite, a US-based software writer in 1987.

2. What is the file extension used for GIF format?

The GIF files can be opened in numerous ranges of programs and use the extension ‘.gif’.

3. What is the advantage of the GIF file?

The GIF files are generally small and can be downloaded easily. Also, the compression format in GIF uses ‘lossless compression’ which prevents the deterioration of the image quality of GIF when compressed.

4. Can a GIF carry sound with animation?

No, because GIFs are not real or true videos, so, are unable to carry sound.

5. What is the maximum length for a GIF?

Usually it depends on the platforms, But generally it is limited to 15 seconds only.

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