A GIF is a bitmap image format developed by CompuServe in 1987, designed for the compression and storage of visual digital information. It supports up to 256 colors per frame and allows for animations by sequencing multiple images within a single file.

GIFs are widely used on the web for their ability to convey motion and emotions succinctly, making them popular in memes, advertisements, and user-generated content. Despite the emergence of more advanced formats, GIFs remain prevalent due to their simplicity and broad compatibility across platforms.