AI is a graphics file format developed by Adobe Systems for Adobe Illustrator software. AI files store vector images. Images in AI are stored as paths connected by points rather than bitma images.

Consistent image quality

Since AI files are saved in vector format, images can be resized without any loss in image quality. AI can have many applications, and the format is commonly used for logos and print media.

AI files and other programs

AI files can be viewed using other image editors than that of Adobe, but opening such images must undergo a process of ‘rastering’, whereby vector images are converted into bitmap images. Such process generated files smaller in size and allows opening with other applications, however, image quality can be slightly lower.

Similarites with other formats

AI file format is based on PGF format, which in turn shares many similarites PDF format. PGF file structure closely resembles that of AI file. Earlier AI file versions were nothing more than EPS fiels with more limited syntax.