WEBP File Extension

What is WEBP file?

The files with .WEBP extension have been designed by Google with the purpose of enabling the users to store the pictures in both lossy and lossless compression formats. The lossy WebP system uses predictive coding to estimate the standard values of colors of the adjacent pixels. Then, it encodes the variance between the real values and the estimated values. From those values, several are zero or null. This leads to the additional decrease in the size of the WebP images. The WebP Images can be accessed through both, Google Chrome and Opera web browsers. There are also several graphic applications in the market like Picasa and ImageMagick, which support the files with .WEBP extension. 

Programs which support WEBP file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 3 operating systems that support WEBP files. WEBP files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 09/04/2019

How to open file with WEBP extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening WEBP files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with WEBP files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Google Chrome

Problems with opening and working with WEBP files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with WEBP files being present on your machine. This one is an easy one. Select Google Chrome or one of the recommended programs (for example, Adobe Photoshop, Opera, Konvertor) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit Google Chrome website and download the installer.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of Google Chrome

If the problems with opening WEBP files still occur even after installing Google Chrome, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of Google Chrome is available. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. If you have an older version of Google Chrome installed, it may not support WEBP format. The latest version of Google Chrome should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open WEBP files to Google Chrome

If you have the latest version of Google Chrome installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage WEBP on your device. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the WEBP file
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the Google Chrome installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open WEBP files box and clicking OK button.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• Right-click the WEBP file and select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• Select Google Chrome and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with WEBP extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

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

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper WEBP file. Being unable to access the file can be related to various issues.

1. Check the WEBP file for viruses or malware

If the WEBP is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. WEBP file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Ensure the file with WEBP extension is complete and error-free

If you obtained the problematic WEBP file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with WEBP extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle Google Chrome

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with WEBP extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with WebP Image files. It may be the case that the WEBP files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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