Microsoft’s Windows 11 operating system natively accommodates a range of file formats. However, until recently, the JPEG XL format—a free and open image standard—has not been included in that list.
What is JPEG XL? This image format provides improved web compatibility over JPEG and incorporates several features to aid webmasters and users in upgrading their current images to this advanced format:
- Efficient compression.
- Support for both lossless and lossy compression.
- Transparency features.
- Compatibility with HDR and an extensive color range.
- Options for progressive loading.
- Backward compatibility.
The main limitation at present is the limited support for this format and the lack of hardware decoding capabilities.
Windows 11: Installing JPEG XL Support
Microsoft has launched the JPEG XL Image Extension on the Microsoft Store. Users operating Windows 11 can download this application to enable support for the JPEG XL format.
Note: This image extension is specifically designed for Windows 11, version 24H2. If you attempt to install it on an earlier version of Windows 11 or on Windows 10, you will encounter a JPEG XL Image Extension failed error.
For those using Windows 11, version 24H2, and who have access to the Microsoft Store, you can visit the JPEG XL Image Extension page to download and install the required support.
If you prefer not to use the Microsoft Store, the Adguard tool allows for direct downloading of the plugin file from a Microsoft server. Here’s how to do it:
- Go to the Adguard website using this link.
- Input this address in the form field: https://apps.microsoft.com/detail/9mzprth5c0tb?hl=en-us&gl=en, ensuring that all parts remain unchanged (URL and RP).
- Click the checkmark button to start the download search.
- Select the Microsoft.JPEG-XLImageExtension_1.2.21.0_neutral_~_8wekyb3d8bbwe.appxbundle link to download the file to your device.
- Double-click the downloaded file to begin the installation.
Once installed, Windows will support JPEG XL natively, allowing your image viewing and editing software to function smoothly with the format.
Many image editors and viewers on Windows already support JPEG XL, either natively or as add-ons. For example, Paint.NET has offered JPEG XL compatibility for some time through a plugin. Developer Rick Brewster has now integrated this plugin into the latest beta version, enabling users to work with the format without needing to manually install the plugin.
Image Source: Rokas Tenys / Shutterstock
