Illustrator Document
ImagesAI is Illustrator’s native artwork format. It can contain images and text as well as vectors. Check linked images, fonts and artboards before sharing an editable AI or a viewing PDF.
- What it is used for
- Editable vector artwork for logos, diagrams and print
- What the file contains
- Binary data
All sections, questions and sources
Content reviewed： · Editor：Kai
First: choose for your purpose
AI is an Illustrator editing document. Use PDF for appearance or an appropriate editor for paths/text. PDF-compatible saving and linked assets affect what other applications can read.
Opening steps
Choose your environment or purpose to see its steps.
Menu labels and support vary by app, OS and version. Preserve the original before making changes.
Troubleshooting by symptom
- Missing image: locate the linked resource or ask the creator to supply/embed it appropriately.
- Text changes: check missing fonts. Outline text only in a copy because editability is lost.
- Older application: check save-version/effect support; request a reference PDF for legacy exports.
- Missing image: use Links to locate it and request the source; embedding and linking differ.
- Substituted text: check missing fonts; outlining changes editability, so retain live-text masters.
- Effects differ in an older version: inspect save version/features and compare the compatibility copy.
AI → PDF / SVG / EPS
- Choose an appropriate save/export format and check artboard range and linked-resource handling.
- Compare text, transparency, color and clipping in the receiving application.
- Inspect all artboards, fonts, images, color, effects and alpha.
Exporting to a vector-capable format does not guarantee every element remains editable vector artwork.
Package linked resources
File → Package can collect the document, linked images and a report; verify recipient dependencies.
Font redistribution depends on licensing; do not distribute Adobe Fonts without permission. Use recipient licensing or a PDF reference.
Source for these steps：Adobe · Package files in Illustrator
PDF, SVG and PNG export
PDF delivers layout, SVG web vectors and PNG pixels; choose artboards, bounds, alpha and dimensions by purpose.
Verify effects, clipping, color and fonts at the destination and retain editable AI rather than replacing it with exports.
Source for these steps：Adobe · How to save artwork in Illustrator
Related-format differences
| Format / choice | Purpose and preserved information |
|---|---|
| AI | Illustrator master with possible font/link dependencies. |
| PDF / SVG | Distribution/web formats without guaranteed full editing data. |
| PNG | Fixed-pixel copy without live text/path editing. |
Handling and security
Inspect embedded images, hidden objects and resource references before sharing; follow font and asset license terms.
Questions and answers
Is all AI content vector?
No; it can include placed raster images.
Does an AI always include its images?
Linked images may be external; check the Links panel.
Is an AI that cannot open in a PDF viewer corrupt?
Not necessarily; it may lack PDF-compatible data.
Can every AI be read as PDF?
It depends on PDF-compatible saving; request a separate PDF.
Does packaging allow unrestricted font sharing?
Check licenses; recipients must obtain fonts lawfully when copying is prohibited.
Format facts: name, steward and MIME type
- Formal name
- Adobe Illustrator Artwork
- Steward / specification
- Adobe
- MIME type
- Depends on the producer or server; an extension alone does not establish a MIME type.
Primary and official sources
- Software documentationHow to save artwork in Illustrator
Reference for AI/EPS saving and compatibility limitations.
Adobe · Link checked： - Software documentationManage linked and embedded files
Explains linked versus embedded artwork and the Links panel.
Adobe · Link checked： - Software documentationPackage files in Illustrator
Collecting linked assets and observing font licenses.
Adobe · Link checked：