.GIF File Extension
Full form: Graphics Interchange Format
What is a .gif file?
An image format limited to 256 colours that can store short looping animations. Files that end with .gif belong to the image family of file types, so your computer links them with a suitable program automatically.
Where is .gif used?
Animated reactions, memes, small web animations and simple icons. Because the format is so common, almost every modern device and software understands it.
Examples of .gif file names
funny.gif, loader.gif
How to open a .gif file
You can open it with: Browsers, Photos app, GIMP. If it does not open, check that the file is not damaged and that you have downloaded it fully; also confirm that the extension was not renamed by mistake.
Quick tips
Never rename a file just to change its extension, because that does not convert the data inside. Use a proper converter or the Save As / Export option. Keep a backup copy of important image files before editing them.