What is .ai?
An .ai file is a proprietary vector graphics file format developed by Adobe Systems for representing single-page vector-based drawings in either the EPS or PDF formats. It is the standard format for Adobe Illustrator.
This quick guide explains when to use .ai files, how to open them on any device, and how to share them instantly with FileXhost.
When to use .ai files
- You are designing logos, icons, or typography that need to scale infinitely.
- You are creating print layouts (business cards, flyers).
- You need to preserve editable vector paths and layers.
How to open .ai files
AI files are best opened with Adobe Illustrator. They can also be opened or imported by other vector editors like CorelDRAW, Inkscape, and Affinity Designer. If saved with PDF compatibility, they can be viewed in PDF readers.
Algorithm details
Modern AI files are essentially PDF files with extra proprietary data embedded. Older versions were based on EPS (Encapsulated PostScript). This allows them to scale without losing quality.
Browser & platform support
- Direct: Not supported natively by web browsers.
- Rendering: Must be converted to SVG, PNG, or JPG for web display.
Format comparison
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Scalability | Infinite scalability without pixelation, unlike raster formats (JPG, PNG). |
| Editability | Fully editable paths, strokes, and fills. |
| Compatibility | Proprietary format, less universal than SVG or PDF. |
How to create ai files
- Adobe Illustrator: The primary tool for creating AI files.
- Export: Some other vector tools can export to AI, but compatibility varies.
How to convert ai files
- To SVG: Best for web use (scalable).
- To PNG/JPG: Best for preview or social media.
- To PDF: Best for sharing and printing.
Advantages & disadvantages
Advantages
- Industry standard for vector design
- Infinite scaling (resolution independent)
- Rich feature set (gradients, meshes, blends)
Disadvantages
- Proprietary and requires paid software (Adobe Illustrator) for full editing
- Not web-native
- Can be large if complex or containing embedded images
Tools & software
Professional
Adobe Illustrator, CorelDRAW, Affinity Designer
Free/Open Source
Inkscape (import only), Scribus
Viewers
Adobe Acrobat Reader (if PDF compatible), Apple Preview
Frequently asked questions
Can I open an AI file without Illustrator?
Yes. If the file was saved with 'PDF Compatibility', you can view it in any PDF reader. Inkscape can also open many AI files.
Is AI better than SVG?
For editing in Illustrator, yes (it saves more data). For the web, no (SVG is the standard).
Why does my AI file look pixelated?
You might be viewing a low-quality preview, or the file might contain embedded raster images instead of vectors.
Technical specs
- File type
- Image
- Extension
- .ai
- MIME type
- application/postscript, application/pdf, application/vnd.adobe.illustrator
- Compression
- Uncompressed
- Max file size on FileXhost
- Usually small for simple vectors, but can grow large with embedded raster images. Up to 25 MB per file on free plans.
Share .ai files instantly
Upload your .ai file to FileXhost to get a clean, shareable URL in seconds. View the file in a modern browser, protect access with optional settings, and let others download it without any confusing ads or cluttered file pages.
Upload .ai file