Convert on Import vs Preserve Original: Which Default Should GIMP Adopt for Color Accuracy?

Goal

Establish a predictable workflow for color‑accurate image editing by defining GIMP’s default behavior when handling embedded ICC profiles during import and export.

Constraint

Current releases of GIMP do not consistently document the default setting for the "Convert on Import" option in Edit → Preferences → Color Management. This ambiguity can lead to inconsistent color rendering across platforms and collaboration workflows.

Unresolved Decision

Should GIMP default to automatically converting image data to the working color space on import, or should it preserve the original embedded profile regardless of the working space?

Specific Questions

• What default conversion behavior will provide the most reliable color consistency for professional workflows?
• How does the choice affect interoperability with other software that expects either preserved or converted profiles?
• What impact does the default setting have on performance and user expectations in both GIMP 2.10.x and the upcoming 3.x branch?