Pixavif converts images with the image library that WordPress already uses for thumbnails: Imagick or GD. The library has to be built with AVIF or WebP support. Almost every host has WebP. AVIF needs a newer build.
InfoYour site keeps working while this is fixed. Visitors simply get your original images.
What you need
| Format | Works with |
|---|---|
| WebP | Imagick with WEBP, or GD with WebP support (PHP 7.4 and newer) |
| AVIF | Imagick 7 with AVIF (libheif), or GD with AVIF support (PHP 8.1 and newer) |
Check what your server has
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Ask your host
The Server tab has a ready email for your host under Email your host. It names exactly what is missing. Most hosts turn it on in minutes, or move you to a newer PHP version where it is included.
A format stopped working after an update
If AVIF or WebP worked before and does not now, your host changed PHP or the image library. Images converted earlier still work. Send your host the report from the Server tab and ask them to restore AVIF or WebP support in Imagick or GD.