JPEG image
What is a JPG file?
JPG (or JPEG, after the Joint Photographic Experts Group that designed it in 1992) is the most widely used image format in the world. It shrinks photos dramatically by discarding detail the eye barely notices. That makes it perfect for photos, but less suited to screenshots and text, where the compression can leave fuzzy edges.
How to open a JPG file
- Windows
- Double-click to open in the Photos app; Paint can also open and resize it.
- Mac
- Double-click to open in Preview, or import it into the Photos app.
- iPhone
- JPGs from the web or email can be saved to Photos with the share button, or kept in the Files app.
- Android
- Tap it to open in Google Photos or your phone's Gallery app.
Good for
- Small files, even for large photos
- Opens absolutely everywhere
- Great quality for photographs
Watch out for
- Loses a little quality every time it's saved
- No transparent backgrounds
- Text and sharp lines can look blurry
JPG file questions
Are JPG and JPEG the same?
Yes. They're the same format; the shorter JPG extension comes from older systems that only allowed three letters.
When should I use PNG instead of JPG?
Use PNG for screenshots, logos, diagrams and anything with text or a transparent background. Use JPG for photos.
How do I combine several JPGs into one file?
Turn them into a PDF with one photo per page. It's the easiest way to send receipts, IDs or scanned pages together.