JPEG XL
JPEG XL
MIME type: image/jxl
JPEG XL is the next-generation image format designed to replace both JPEG and PNG. It offers superior compression, supports both lossy and lossless modes, and can losslessly transcode existing JPEG files to 20% smaller sizes. Chrome re-enabled JXL support in January 2026.
Advantages
- +Better compression than JPEG, PNG, WebP, and AVIF in many cases
- +Lossless JPEG recompression (save 20% with zero quality loss)
- +Supports both lossy and lossless
- +Progressive decoding (image loads gradually)
- +Royalty-free, open standard
Limitations
- -Limited browser support (Chrome re-enabled Jan 2026, Firefox behind flag)
- -Very new — limited software ecosystem
- -Encoding is slow for highest quality settings
- -Safari support uncertain
Common Use Cases
Technical Details
JPEG XL uses a novel variable-block-size DCT combined with an advanced entropy coder (ANS). It supports up to 32-bit floating point per channel, up to 4100 channels, and image dimensions up to 2^30 pixels per side. The format includes a unique feature: lossless JPEG recompression that can reconstruct the original JPEG bit-for-bit while reducing file size by ~20%. The codec is defined in ISO/IEC 18181.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is JPEG XL?
JPEG XL (JXL) is a next-generation image format that offers better compression than JPEG, PNG, WebP, and even AVIF in many scenarios. It's designed to be the universal replacement for all existing image formats.
Does Chrome support JPEG XL?
Yes! Chrome re-enabled JPEG XL support in January 2026. Firefox supports it behind a flag. Safari support is still pending.
Can JPEG XL make my JPEG files smaller without losing quality?
Yes — this is JPEG XL's killer feature. It can losslessly transcode existing JPEG files to ~20% smaller sizes, and the original JPEG can be perfectly reconstructed. No other format can do this.