JPEG File Extension

What is JPEG file?

JPEG file extension is commonly associated with image files, and is one the most popular graphic formats currently in use. It uses lossy compression algoritm designed by Joint Photographic Experts Group. JPEG files are usually used to hold digital image data and computer graphics. JPEG file contains metadata with additional information such as color space, color profile, and image dimension.

JPEG and JPG

JPG file extension, a format that is interchangeable with JPEG, is the more popular format of the two.

JPEG compression method

JPEG uses lossy compression algorithm, i.e. some image information is lost and cannot be recovered. Although such compression method significantly reduces image size, it comes at the cost of lower image quality. Still, JPEG offers acceptable image quality despite drastic reduction of file size. Furthermore, user can choose compression level while converting image into JPEG to achieve desired quality.

JPEG format specification

JPEG file stores up to 24 bit s of data per pixel, which means it supports full color pallete. JPEG format is further divided into 2 sub-formats – JPEG/Exif and JPEG/JFIF. The former is used in photography, while the latter is the internet standard. Exif and JFIF standards define the popular JPEG-compressed image format.

Programs which support JPEG file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support JPEG files. Files with JPEG extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 03/03/2024

How to open file with JPEG extension?

Problems with accessing JPEG may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with JPEG extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Adobe Photoshop software

Problems with opening and working with JPEG files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with JPEG files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing Adobe Photoshop or different compatible program, such as ACDSee, Adobe Illustrator, PaperPort. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Adobe Photoshop installed is by going to developer’s website (Adobe Systems Incorporated) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Adobe Photoshop and update if needed

You still cannot access JPEG files although Adobe Photoshop is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that Adobe Photoshop cannot handle files with JPEG may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using Adobe Photoshop.

Step 3. Assign Adobe Photoshop to JPEG files

After installing Adobe Photoshop (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open JPEG files. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Right-click the JPEG file and choose Open with option
• Select Choose another app → More apps
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Adobe Photoshop is installed, check the Always use this app to open JPEG files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the JPEG file and select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with JPEG extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the JPEG file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the JPEG file is valid. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The JPEG may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the JPEG is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Scan the JPEG file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the JPEG file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If the JPEG file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the JPEG file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the JPEG Image file again.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Adobe Photoshop

If the systems has insufficient resources to open JPEG files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with JPEG Image files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle JPEG files.

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