=== Smart Image Optimizer ===
Contributors: umii020
Donate link: 
Tags: image compression, image conversion, png, jpeg, webp
Requires at least: 5.0
Tested up to: 6.8
Requires PHP: 7.4
Stable tag: 1.0
License: GPLv2 or later
License URI: https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html

Smart Image Optimizer compresses image sizes and converts them to modern formats like JPEG, PNG, AVIF, and more — for faster websites and better SEO.

== Description ==

**Smart Image Optimizer** is a powerful and lightweight plugin that:

- Compresses uploaded images to reduce file size.
- Converts images into modern formats like JPEG, PNG, AVIF, WebP, and more.
- Retains visual quality using lossless or smart lossy compression.
- Enables lazy loading to improve page speed.
- Automatically optimizes images during upload.
- Allows bulk optimization of existing media.

This plugin is ideal for bloggers, photographers, eCommerce stores, and all WordPress users aiming to improve performance and user experience.

== Features ==

- ✅ Lossless and lossy compression options
- ✅ Format conversion: PNG ↔ JPEG, AVIF, WebP
- ✅ Automatic optimization on upload
- ✅ Bulk optimization of media library
- ✅ Lazy load for all images
- ✅ No third-party API required (works locally)

== Installation ==

1. Upload the plugin to the `/wp-content/plugins/smart-image-optimizer` directory.
2. Activate the plugin through the 'Plugins' screen in WordPress.
3. Go to **Settings > Smart Image Optimizer** to configure optimization settings.

== Frequently Asked Questions ==

= Can I choose which format to convert to? =
Yes. You can select the desired output format (e.g., WebP, AVIF, JPEG) from the plugin settings.

= Does this plugin require a third-party API? =
No. Everything is processed on your server — no external requests needed.

= Will original images be kept? =
Yes, depending on your settings. You can choose to keep or replace originals.

= Will this plugin work with existing media? =
Absolutely. Use the bulk optimization tool on your media library.

== Screenshots ==

1. Optimization settings panel
2. Bulk optimization tool
3. Compression and format options

== Changelog ==

= 1.0 =
* Initial release with compression, format conversion, lazy loading, and bulk optimization.

== Upgrade Notice ==

= 1.0 =
Initial version. No upgrade steps required.

== License ==

Smart Image Optimizer is open-source software licensed under the [GPLv2 or later](https://www.gnu.org/licenses/gpl-2.0.html).