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What file types are supported for BIMI logos and are animated logos allowed?

Summary

The question of what file types are supported for BIMI logos and whether animated logos are permitted is crucial for brands seeking to implement Brand Indicators for Message Identification. BIMI (pronounced 'BEE-mee') allows companies to display their authenticated brand logo next to their emails in supporting inboxes, enhancing brand recognition and trust. However, the technical specifications for these logos are quite stringent, ensuring security, scalability, and consistent display across various email clients.Implementing BIMI requires adherence to specific image formats and technical attributes, primarily focusing on Scalable Vector Graphics (SVG) with a particular profile. Deviations from these requirements, such as attempting to use animated images or incorrect SVG versions, will prevent your logo from appearing.

What email marketers say

Email marketers often explore creative ways to enhance brand visibility in the inbox. The idea of animated logos for BIMI is a recurring topic, driven by the desire for dynamic and engaging visuals. However, the reality of BIMI's technical constraints and the practical implications for email deliverability often temper these aspirations. Marketers emphasize the importance of adhering to the specified SVG format to ensure their logos display correctly, recognizing that non-compliance means a lost opportunity for brand impression.

Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks inquired about the feasibility of using GIF files for BIMI logos, indicating an interest in dynamic brand representation within the email inbox. This highlights a common question among brands looking to leverage visual elements.

18 May 2023 - Email Geeks

Marketer view

Marketer from Email Geeks expressed appreciation for the general concept of animated brand indicators. They acknowledged its potential to create a more dynamic visual experience, even if the specific implementation for BIMI is limited.

18 May 2023 - Email Geeks

What the experts say

Industry experts provide critical insights into the technical nuances and practical considerations of BIMI logo requirements. Their perspectives often highlight the precise nature of the SVG specification and the reasons behind the exclusion of animated logos. Experts stress that compliance isn't just about display, but also about maintaining the integrity, security, and consistent user experience that BIMI aims to deliver. Their advice often delves into troubleshooting common issues and adhering to the foundational principles of email authentication.

Expert view

Expert from Email Geeks clarified that BIMI strictly supports only SVG Tiny 1.2, rejecting other image formats. This precise requirement ensures compatibility and consistent display across various email environments.

18 May 2023 - Email Geeks

Expert view

Expert from Email Geeks confirmed that the correct SVG profile for BIMI is SVG Portable/Secure (Tiny P/S), emphasizing the technical specifics required for a valid logo. They highlighted the importance of using this precise profile for successful BIMI implementation.

18 May 2023 - Email Geeks

What the documentation says

The official documentation and technical specifications for BIMI explicitly outline the requirements for brand logos. These documents are the ultimate source of truth, detailing the precise file formats, profiles, and attributes necessary for a BIMI-compliant SVG. They also provide the underlying rationale for these choices, often citing reasons related to security, universal scalability, and preventing undesirable rendering behaviors in diverse email environments. Understanding these foundational documents is key to successful BIMI implementation.

Technical article

BIMI Group documentation states that the brand image for display must be in Scaled Vector Graphics (SVG) format, specifically outlining the required SVG Portable/Secure (SVG P/S) profile. This ensures the logo maintains its quality regardless of display size.

22 Mar 2025 - BIMI Group

Technical article

BIMI Group documentation explains that SVG was selected as the preferred image format due to its broad support across various operating systems and devices. This makes it a robust choice for consistent logo display in diverse email client environments.

08 Jun 2021 - BIMI Group

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