> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/d2phap/ImageGlass/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Introduction to ImageGlass

> A lightweight, versatile image viewer for Windows with support for over 90 image formats

# Welcome to ImageGlass

ImageGlass is a lightweight, open-source image viewer designed for seamless viewing of images in a clean and intuitive interface. Built for Windows 10 and 11, it offers a perfect balance of simplicity and power for both everyday users and professionals.

## What is ImageGlass?

ImageGlass provides a fast, efficient way to view and manage your image files with minimal system overhead. Whether you're a photographer reviewing shots, a designer checking assets, or simply browsing personal photos, ImageGlass delivers a smooth viewing experience with advanced features when you need them.

<Note>
  ImageGlass is free and open-source software licensed under GPLv3. It's free for both personal and commercial use.
</Note>

## Key Features

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Extensive Format Support" icon="images">
    View over 90 image formats including WEBP, GIF, SVG, PNG, JXL, HEIC, AVIF, RAW formats (CR2, NEF, ARW), and many more.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Clean Interface" icon="window">
    Distraction-free viewing with a modern, customizable interface that stays out of your way.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Fast Performance" icon="gauge-high">
    Lightweight design ensures quick startup and smooth navigation even with large image collections.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Advanced Navigation" icon="arrows-left-right">
    Seamlessly browse through folders with keyboard shortcuts, thumbnail gallery, and Explorer integration.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Customizable Themes" icon="palette">
    Personalize your viewing experience with built-in themes and customization options.
  </Card>

  <Card title="Multi-instance Support" icon="clone">
    Open multiple windows to compare images side by side or work with different folders simultaneously.
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## Why Choose ImageGlass?

### Comprehensive Format Support

ImageGlass supports an extensive range of image formats out of the box:

* **Common formats**: JPG, PNG, GIF, BMP, TIFF, ICO, SVG, WEBP
* **Modern formats**: AVIF, JXL (JPEG XL), HEIC/HEIF
* **RAW camera formats**: CR2, CR3, NEF, ARW, DNG, RAF, ORF, and many more
* **Specialized formats**: PSD, FITS, HDR, EXR, FLIF, QOI
* **Animated images**: APNG, animated GIF, animated WEBP

### Designed for Workflow Efficiency

ImageGlass includes features that enhance your productivity:

* **Explorer sort order** - Maintains the same file order as Windows Explorer
* **Quick setup wizard** - Get started quickly with guided configuration
* **File associations** - Easily set ImageGlass as your default image viewer
* **Customizable toolbar** - Access your most-used functions quickly
* **Auto-update** - Stay current with the latest features and improvements (Classic version)

### Open Source and Community-Driven

ImageGlass is developed openly on GitHub with contributions from developers worldwide. The project values:

* **Transparency** - All code is publicly available
* **Community feedback** - Feature requests and bug reports drive development
* **Privacy** - No telemetry or tracking
* **Extensibility** - Support for plugins and custom tools

## Distribution Options

ImageGlass is available in two versions:

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="ImageGlass Classic" icon="download">
    **Free download** from ImageGlass.org

    * Free for personal and commercial use
    * Available from multiple sources
    * User-managed updates
    * Full feature set including Explorer integration
  </Card>

  <Card title="ImageGlass Store" icon="store">
    **Available on Microsoft Store**

    * One-time purchase with 7-day trial
    * Automatic background updates
    * Hotfix updates as soon as available
    * Same features as Classic version
    * Easy installation across all your Windows devices
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

<Note>
  Purchasing from the Microsoft Store supports ongoing development while providing the convenience of automatic updates.
</Note>

## Use Cases

**For Photographers**

* Quick preview of RAW files without opening heavy editing software
* Fast browsing through photo shoots
* EXIF data viewing for camera settings

**For Designers**

* Preview design assets in various formats
* Compare images side-by-side with multiple instances
* View layered PSD files

**For General Users**

* Lightweight replacement for the default Windows photo viewer
* Simple, clean interface for browsing photos
* Support for modern formats like WEBP and AVIF

## Next Steps

<CardGroup cols={2}>
  <Card title="Install ImageGlass" icon="download" href="/installation">
    Get ImageGlass installed on your system
  </Card>

  <Card title="Quick Start Guide" icon="rocket" href="/quickstart">
    Learn the basics and start viewing images
  </Card>
</CardGroup>

## System Requirements

Before installing, ensure your system meets these requirements:

* Windows 10/11 64-bit, version 1809 (build 17763) or later
* Optional: WebView2 Runtime for advanced features

<Warning>
  ImageGlass requires a 64-bit version of Windows. 32-bit systems are not supported.
</Warning>