TGS File Format

Overview

The TGS file format, introduced by Telegram in July 2019, is designed to bring life to your messages with animated stickers. Unlike static images, these animated stickers offer a dynamic way to express yourself or enhance the visual appeal of your conversations. The TGS format leverages the Lottie library and JSON data compressed using gzip, ensuring that animations are both high-resolution and compact in size. This makes it an ideal choice for users who want to add a touch of animation without sacrificing performance.

Developers and technical users will find the TGS file format particularly interesting due to its unique blend of simplicity and efficiency. Whether you’re creating animated stickers or integrating this format into your applications, understanding the nuances of TGS can greatly enhance your projects’ visual appeal and interactivity.

Key Features

  • High-Quality Animations: Supports high-resolution animations that are visually appealing.
  • Efficient Compression: Utilizes gzip compression to reduce file size without compromising quality.
  • Standardized Specifications: Strict guidelines ensure consistency across all TGS files, making them easy to work with and integrate.
  • Cross-Platform Compatibility: Widely supported on various platforms including Windows, macOS, iOS, and Android.
  • Looped Animations: Ensures seamless playback by looping the animation indefinitely.

Technical Specifications

Format Structure

The TGS file format is a compressed JSON text file. The JSON data describes the animations created in Adobe After Effects, which are then exported to TGS using Bodymovin or similar tools. This JSON content is subsequently compressed with gzip to optimize storage and transmission efficiency.

Core Components

  • JSON Data: Contains all animation details including frames, layers, and keyframes.
  • Gzip Compression: Applied to the JSON data to reduce file size while maintaining integrity.
  • Metadata Header: Includes basic information about the TGS file such as version number and compression type.

Standards & Compatibility

TGS files adhere to specific standards set by Telegram for animated stickers. These include strict limitations on canvas size, animation length, and file size after rendering with Bodymovin. The format is compatible across multiple platforms including desktop applications like Telegram Desktop and mobile apps like the official Telegram app.

History & Evolution

The TGS file format was introduced in July 2019 as part of Telegram’s effort to enhance user engagement through animated stickers. Initially, this move aimed at providing a richer experience compared to static WEBP stickers. Since then, it has become an integral part of the platform’s visual communication strategy.

Working with TGS Files

Opening TGS Files

You can open and view TGS files using various applications such as Telegram Desktop or mobile apps like the official Telegram application. Additionally, tools like 7-Zip, Apple Archive Utility, and Corel WinZip are capable of extracting and viewing the contents of a TGS file.

Converting TGS Files

Converting TGS files to other formats is less common but can be necessary for certain use cases such as integrating animations into web applications. The process typically involves decompressing the JSON data within the TGS file, then using Bodymovin or similar tools to export it in a different format like MP4 or GIF.

Creating TGS Files

To create TGS files, you’ll need Adobe After Effects along with the Bodymovin plugin. First, design your animation in After Effects ensuring it adheres to Telegram’s specifications (512x512 pixels canvas size, 60 FPS, etc.). Once complete, export the animation as a JSON file and compress it using gzip to create the final TGS file.

Common Use Cases

  • Enhancing Messaging: Add animated stickers to your messages for more engaging conversations.
  • Custom Stickers: Create unique animated stickers that reflect personal or brand identity.
  • Web Integration: Integrate animations into web applications using Bodymovin and other tools.

Advantages & Limitations

Advantages:

  • High-Quality Animations: Supports high-resolution, smooth animations.
  • Efficient Compression: Utilizes gzip to reduce file size without losing quality.
  • Standardized Format: Ensures consistency across all TGS files for easy integration and use.

Limitations:

  • Strict Specifications: Requires adherence to specific guidelines which can limit creativity in some cases.
  • Limited Use Cases: Primarily designed for animated stickers, limiting its application outside of this context.

Developer Resources

Programming with TGS files is supported through various APIs and libraries. Code examples and implementation guides will be added soon.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. How do I open a TGS file? You can use Telegram’s desktop or mobile app to view TGS files directly. Alternatively, tools like 7-Zip or Apple Archive Utility can extract the contents of a TGS file for viewing.

  2. Can I convert TGS files to other formats? Yes, you can convert TGS files to MP4 or GIF using Bodymovin and other similar tools after decompressing the JSON data within the TGS file.

  3. What are the requirements for creating a TGS file? To create TGS files, you need Adobe After Effects with the Bodymovin plugin installed. Follow Telegram’s guidelines to ensure your animations meet the necessary specifications.

References

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