Method and system condensing animated images

Improved techniques for condensing or reducing animated image data streams are disclosed. The improved techniques enable the transmission and storage of animated images in a rapid and efficient manner. Animated images are normally stored as image files that include a series of images which produce an animation effect when sequentially displayed. For example, animated image files are often used by Internet sites to provide animation to their web pages. In the case of a proxy server for a network (e.g., the Internet) that caches images, the condensing or reducing of the animated image files is particularly helpful because it not only to reduces image storage space but also accelerates the delivery of these animated images to end users. The improved techniques are particularly well suited for use in reducing or condensing animated GIF images.