what is gif

A GIF, which stands for Graphics Interchange Format, is an image file format that can showcase brief animations. Unlike other image formats, GIFs are frequently animated. They are designed to display simple images and animations, and are better suited to graphics and logos featuring sharp lines and edges with relatively few colors. GIF files can support up to 8 bits per pixel and can contain 256 indexed colors. They also allow images or frames to be combined, creating basic animations. Although GIFs were not designed as an animation medium, their ability to store multiple images in one file naturally suggested using the format to store the frames of an animation sequence. GIFs are often used to express jokes or emotions by referencing memes or memorable moments from TV shows and movies. They are popular on social media platforms and messaging apps, and are helpful for instructional or informational purposes.