What is an AI File?
AI (Adobe Illustrator Artwork) is Adobe's proprietary vector graphics format, created in 1987 alongside the first version of Adobe Illustrator. It's the native file format for Illustrator and stores vector artwork with full editability including layers, paths, text, and effects.
Modern AI files (version 9 and later) are based on PDF internally, which allows for some compatibility with PDF readers when saved with the "Create PDF Compatible File" option. However, most users without Adobe Illustrator cannot open or edit AI files directly.
AI remains the industry standard for professional vector design work, used by graphic designers, illustrators, and print professionals worldwide.
Why Convert AI Files?
Adobe Illustrator files are powerful but limited in compatibility. Most people encounter AI files when receiving designs from graphic designers but cannot open them without expensive software.
- No Illustrator license – Adobe Illustrator costs $22.99/month, and most people don't need it just to view a file
- Sharing with clients – Clients need viewable formats like PNG, JPG, or PDF instead of editable AI files
- Web publishing – Websites cannot display AI files; you need PNG, JPG, SVG, or WebP
- Social media uploads – Platforms only accept standard image formats
- Printing services – Many print shops prefer PDF over AI for final artwork
Convert AI to Other Formats
Our converter supports all major output formats. Choose based on your specific needs:
AI to PNG
Best for web graphics, logos with transparency, and digital use. PNG preserves sharp edges and supports transparent backgrounds - ideal for logos and icons extracted from Illustrator.
AI to JPG
Perfect for photos, social media, and email attachments. JPG creates smaller files than PNG but doesn't support transparency. Use for photographs or when file size matters.
AI to PDF
Industry standard for sharing print-ready artwork. PDF preserves vector quality and can be opened by anyone. Best choice for sending designs to print shops or clients.
AI to SVG
Converts to web-native vector format. SVG files scale infinitely without quality loss and can be edited with code. Perfect for responsive websites and interactive graphics.
AI to WebP
Modern web format with superior compression. WebP files are 25-35% smaller than PNG/JPG while maintaining quality. Ideal for website optimization.
AI to EPS
Legacy vector format with broad compatibility. EPS works with older design software and some print workflows that don't accept AI files directly.
AI to GIF
Good for simple graphics with limited colors. GIF supports transparency and animation. Use for icons, simple logos, or animated exports.
AI to TIFF
High-quality raster format for print production. TIFF preserves maximum detail and supports CMYK color. Professional print shops often request TIFF files.
AI to BMP
Uncompressed Windows bitmap format. BMP offers maximum compatibility with legacy Windows applications but creates large files.
AI to JPEG
Same as JPG - the standard format for photographs and web images. JPEG and JPG are identical formats with different file extensions.
AI File Technical Specifications
- Full name: Adobe Illustrator Artwork
- Developer: Adobe Inc.
- First released: 1987
- File extension: .ai
- MIME type: application/illustrator, application/postscript
- Format basis: PDF (v9+) or EPS/PostScript (v1-8)
- Color spaces: RGB, CMYK, Grayscale, Spot colors
- Supports: Vector paths, text, embedded rasters, layers, effects
AI File Compatibility
Software That Opens AI Files
- Adobe Illustrator (full editing)
- Adobe Photoshop (rasterized)
- CorelDRAW (partial support)
- Inkscape (limited, via PDF compatibility)
- PDF readers (view only, if PDF-compatible)
Platforms That Don't Support AI
How to Convert AI Files
- Upload your AI file – Drag and drop or click to select your Adobe Illustrator file. We accept all AI versions.
- Choose output format – Select PNG for web graphics, JPG for photos, PDF for print, or SVG for scalable web vectors.
- Download converted file – Get your converted file instantly. No watermarks, no registration required.
Our cloud-based converter processes AI files on secure servers. Your files are automatically deleted after conversion.
Batch Convert Multiple AI Files
Need to convert an entire folder of Illustrator files? Upload multiple AI files at once and convert them all to your chosen format. Perfect for designers exporting assets or preparing deliverables for clients.
Works on Any Device
Our AI converter runs entirely in your browser - no software installation required. Convert Illustrator files on any device:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, ChromeOS
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- iPhone, iPad, Android tablets