An AAE file is an XML-based format containing all the edits or adjustments made on a particular digital photo. AAE files do not contain the actual image or video data but rather the instructions on applying the edits to the original file. This means that when you edit a photo on an Apple device, an AAE file is created alongside it, ensuring you can always revert to the original image if needed. Understanding AAE files is essential for anyone who uses Apple’s Photos app, especially if you also work with Windows systems.
The AAE file extension stands for Apple Aperture Edits. It is unique to Mac-based systems and is created when you edit an image on any Apple device. These files hold important information about alterations like contrast and color adjustments. Interestingly, while AAE files are mainly used within Apple’s ecosystem, they can also be transferred to Windows or other operating systems, making it crucial to know how to handle them across different platforms.
In this article, we will explore what AAE files are, how to open them, and whether it's safe to delete them. Whether you're a casual user or a professional photographer, understanding these files can enhance your editing experience and help maintain your digital photo library.
What is an AAE File?
An AAE file is essentially an XML-based sidecar file that accompanies an image or video file on Apple devices. It contains specific instructions about the changes made to the corresponding image file, such as edits, filters, and adjustments. This feature allows you to maintain the original quality of your images while experimenting with various edits and effects in the Photos app on iOS or macOS.
When you make changes to a photo, the app saves all your edits in the AAE file. This method of non-destructive editing ensures that your original image remains untouched, and you can always go back to it. Therefore, AAE files play a significant role in preserving the integrity of your photos while allowing you to enhance them creatively.
How to Open an AAE File in Windows
AAE files are stored as XML files, making them easily readable by humans. You can open them in any text editor, such as Apple TextEdit on macOS or Microsoft Notepad on Windows OS. Notepad++ is another advanced editor that can also handle AAE files, providing a user-friendly way to view the XML code.
To open AAE files on Windows, follow these simple steps:
- Right-click the ‘AAE’ file.
- From the dropdown menu, select ‘Open with.’
- Choose a text editor like Notepad or Microsoft Word, then press ‘OK’.
- The editor will display the XML code, allowing you to view the edits made.
Can I Delete an AAE File in Windows?
When you import edited pictures to Windows from Apple devices, AAE files typically come along with them. Since these files only contain the edits made to the pictures, you can safely delete them without affecting the original images or videos. The AAE files share the same name as the associated pictures, which can help you keep track of which edits belong to which images.
However, it’s essential to note that if you delete or rename the AAE file on a Mac or iPhone, you may lose access to your changes and the ability to edit the photo further. Therefore, if you wish to keep a copy of your edited photo or video, export it from the Photos app before deleting the AAE file.
In summary, AAE files are a crucial part of the Apple editing experience, allowing users to maintain high-quality, editable photos. Understanding how to manage these files, whether on Apple devices or Windows, can greatly enhance your photo editing workflow.
