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Why doesn't Webflow support webP images despite widespread browser and operating system compatibility?

TL;DR
  • Webflow doesn't allow direct WebP uploads to maintain control over image optimization, fallback support, and CDN compression.
  • Instead, upload JPG or PNG files, and Webflow will automatically convert and serve WebP versions to supported browsers.

Webflow currently does not support direct WebP image uploads, despite broad browser support, due to a combination of platform limitations and pipeline consistency decisions. Here's a breakdown of why.

1. Webflow's Image Optimization Pipeline

  • Webflow automatically optimizes images you upload (JPG, PNG, GIF, SVG) to improve performance and delivery.
  • This pipeline converts and serves WebP versions on the front end when possible, even if you upload JPG or PNG files.
  • Webflow likely restricts direct WebP uploads to maintain control over this optimization process, ensuring consistent output and fallback handling.

2. Fallback Handling for Legacy Browsers

  • Even though most modern browsers support WebP, some email clients, older CMS editors, and tools still do not.
  • When you upload a WebP directly, Webflow's system might lack the robust fallback and transformation tools needed to guarantee multi-format delivery.

3. Limited Image Editing Features

  • Webflow's built-in CMS and Designer currently lack image editing or transformation tools, such as cropping or resizing WebP files.
  • Legacy support and internal format handling push Webflow to prioritize standard formats like JPG and PNG, then transform to WebP behind the scenes.

4. CDN and Compression Dependencies

  • Webflow uses Amazon CloudFront and custom image compression via their CDN.
  • Their infrastructure may not yet be optimized to properly handle and recompress WebP images uploaded directly, which limits their backend control.

Summary

Webflow doesn't support direct WebP image uploads because it handles WebP conversion internally to ensure optimized delivery, fallback support, and consistent image handling. To benefit from WebP, you can upload JPG or PNG files—Webflow will automatically generate and serve WebP formats on compatible browsers.

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