Convert APNG (Animated PNG) to PBM

Animated Portable Network Graphics (APNG) is an extension of the Portable Network Graphics (PNG) format designed to support animated images. Introduced in 2004, APNG allows for animated sequences while retaining backward compatibility with non-animated PNG files. This format is utilized for its lossless compression, making it ideal for web graphics where image quality is paramount. APNG files are widely used for animated icons, logos, and other elements that benefit from high-quality animations without the artifacts common in GIF files. Its concise, efficient structure makes it a preferred choice among developers and designers focused on optimizing web performance.

The PBM (Portable Bitmap) file extension, part of the Netpbm project, originated in the late 1980s to facilitate efficient and portable graphics file interchange. Primarily, PBM files are used to store monochrome bitmaps in a simple ASCII text format, ensuring easy compatibility across different systems and platforms. This format supports only black-and-white imagery, making it particularly useful in scenarios where simplicity and minimalism are prioritized, such as in Unix environments for bitmap manipulation and transfer. Its historical significance lies in promoting a standardized approach to bitmap graphics in early computer technology.