AI file format
| Extension | .ai |
| Category | images |
| Programs | Adobe Acrobat Adobe Photoshop ACD Systems Canvas CorelDRAW XnView Ghostscript Inkscape sK1 GIMP |
| Main program | Adobe Illustrator CS |
| Description | The .ai format, developed by Adobe Systems, is a proprietary file format designed for single-page vector-based drawings in either the EPS or PDF formats. This format, which is primarily used by Adobe Illustrator, a popular vector graphics editing program, is specifically created for the creation and editing of vector graphics. AI files are the go-to choice for logos and illustrations, thanks to their ability to be resized without losing any image quality. |
| Technical details | With Adobe Illustrator as its associated program, the .ai file format is a proprietary drawing format that utilizes vectors to represent artwork in EPS or PDF formats. Unlike raster graphics (.jpg, .png), .ai files make use of scalable paths and points, making them the perfect choice for resizable designs such as logos. Initially designed to be exclusive to Illustrator, these files can now be used with various graphic design software, although there may be some limitations. Drawing inspiration from PDF, .ai files support layers and artboards, and can include both vector and raster graphics. They maintain their editability, allowing for modifications to individual graphic elements. The complexity of the design and the quantity of embedded images determine the size of the file. Adobe Illustrator also offers backward compatibility, allowing files to be saved in formats that older versions can understand, though newer features may not be preserved. These files are seen as essential tools for professional printers, graphic designers, and digital graphics professionals. |
| MIME type | application/postscript |