What is meant by a "visual diff"?

A "visual diff" refers to a graphical representation that highlights the differences between a baseline image and a new image. This process is commonly utilized in visual testing to detect changes in user interfaces (UIs) or visual designs. By providing a clear visual comparison, stakeholders can easily identify discrepancies that might indicate bugs, design shifts, or regressions following updates to the application or website.

The utility of a visual diff is particularly significant in automated testing environments, where it helps ensure visual consistency across different versions of a product. It allows developers and testers to spot unintended changes effectively, facilitating a more streamlined quality assurance process.