If Windows or one of your desktop apps cannot open an AVIF image, the fastest fix is to convert it to PNG. PNG works more reliably across editors, file previews, and sharing workflows.
This is especially useful for Pixel screenshots, Android photos, archived assets, and older software that still does not read AVIF correctly.
Most AVIF-to-PNG conversions on Windows happen because compatibility is more important than compression.
Some Windows image editors, CMS upload tools, and office workflows still reject AVIF files or open them inconsistently.
PNG is still the safer fallback when you want to annotate a screenshot, place it into a design tool, or re-export it later.
If you need to send the file to another Windows user, PNG avoids the guesswork around who can open AVIF and who cannot.
If the image is private or work-related, converting it locally in the browser avoids sending the file to a cloud service.
The goal is not to keep AVIF at all costs. The goal is to get a file Windows tools can reliably open and edit.
You can move straight from a failing AVIF file to a PNG that works in more Windows apps without installing another converter.
For screenshots, work files, or drafts, local conversion is a better fit than uploading images to a cloud tool just to open them.
Once the file is in PNG, it is easier to edit, re-save, paste into apps, and send to other Windows users.
Short answers for the most common Windows compatibility questions.
Open the AVIF file as PNG in your browser and keep the result ready for editing, previewing, or sharing.
Last updated: Apr 21, 2026 · Maintained by AVIF to PNG Editorial Team · v1.0