Convert AAE to PNG

Understanding AAE and PNG file formats

The AAE file format is primarily associated with Apple's Photos app. It is used to store edits made to photos on iOS and macOS devices. These files contain XML data that records changes such as cropping, filters, and adjustments, but they do not contain the actual image data.

On the other hand, the PNG file format (Portable Network Graphics) is a widely used image format known for its lossless compression and support for transparency. PNG files are commonly used for web graphics, digital photography, and image editing.

Why convert AAE to PNG?

Converting AAE to PNG is necessary when you want to apply the edits stored in an AAE file to the original image and save it in a widely compatible format like PNG. This allows you to share or use the edited image across different platforms and applications.

How to convert AAE to PNG

Since AAE files do not contain image data, you cannot directly convert them to PNG. Instead, you need to apply the edits stored in the AAE file to the original image and then save it as a PNG. Here’s how you can do it:

Using Apple Photos

1. Open the Photos app on your iOS or macOS device.
2. Locate the image associated with the AAE file.
3. Ensure the edits are applied to the image.
4. Go to File → Export → Export Unmodified Original to save the edited image.
5. Choose PNG as the format and save the file.

Best software for AAE to PNG conversion

The best way to convert AAE to PNG is by using the native Photos app on Apple devices, as it automatically applies the edits stored in AAE files. For users on other platforms, transferring the edited image to a device with the Photos app is recommended.