Windows Imaging Component (WIC) allows applications to support new image formats via system codecs. By installing Google's official WIC codec, you enable WebP decoding across your entire Windows operating system, which ThumbsPlus can leverage.
"ThumbsPlus WebP" is a story of a powerful legacy software that failed to adapt to the times. If your workflow relies on the unique database structure or batch processing of ThumbsPlus, you can still use it by deploying external converters as a bridge. However, for long-term reliability and native WebP support, the general consensus in the community is that users should begin migrating to alternatives like or PhotoPrism , which are actively moving toward modern image formats.
ThumbsPlus relies on the Windows Imaging Component (WIC) or standard graphics libraries. If you install a WebP codec for Windows (e.g., from Google or the WebP Codec project), ThumbsPlus may be able to view thumbnails and basic metadata. However, full editing or batch conversion is often unstable or unavailable.
ThumbsPlus is incredibly memory efficient. While IrfanView is slightly faster at raw conversion, ThumbsPlus wins on database management —you can tag, rate, and search WebP images via IPTC metadata, which IrfanView cannot do natively.
: Unlike JPEG, WebP supports alpha channels (transparency) and can even replace bulky GIFs. thumbsplus webp
Before diving into the specifics of WebP support, it is helpful to understand what makes ThumbsPlus a beloved tool for so many. Developed by Cerious Software, Inc., ThumbsPlus is a multi-functional Windows application that helps users catalog, view, edit, print, and organize digital assets. First released in the 1990s, it has built a loyal following over the years, particularly among users managing extremely large image collections or seeking specific features not found in other software.
ThumbsPlus was built during the golden age of JPEGs, TIFFs, and BMPs. Because the software’s core image-parsing engines were architected prior to the widespread adoption of Google’s web-centric format, native, out-of-the-box support varies heavily by version. Legacy Versions (ThumbsPlus 7, 8, and 9)
ThumbsPlus is a powerful digital asset management tool that allows you to catalog and manage your images, videos, and other digital files. With ThumbsPlus, you can:
I have found that ThumbsPlus version 10 does not support WebP, and version 11 was promised but may not have been released. I have information about WebP's benefits and some workarounds. If your workflow relies on the unique database
The true power of ThumbsPlus has always been its feature. Here is how to integrate WebP into your mass conversion workflows.
Older, classic versions of ThumbsPlus do not natively recognize the .webp extension. If you point a legacy installation of ThumbsPlus at a folder full of WebP images, the software will typically display generic file icons rather than rendering visual thumbnails. Trying to open them in the internal viewer will often trigger an "Unsupported Format" error. Modern Versions (ThumbsPlus 10 and Beyond)
First, it is helpful to understand what ThumbsPlus is, as its core philosophy differs from standard image viewers. ThumbsPlus is a comprehensive asset management system and database, often described as a "digital asset management (DAM) solution".
WebP lossless images are roughly 26% smaller in size compared to PNGs, while still supporting alpha channel transparency. If you install a WebP codec for Windows (e
Restart your computer to ensure the system registers the new codec. Step 2: Configure ThumbsPlus File Types
Honestly? If you handle thousands of WebP files, forcing ThumbsPlus to support them is like teaching a diesel engine to run on gasoline. Instead, create a using ThumbsPlus for management and external tools for conversion .
If you are using ThumbsPlus (a popular image database and thumbnail generator), here is everything you need to know about getting WebP files to work seamlessly.