If you’ve ever tried to open an AAE file on your Windows 10 computer, you might have found yourself scratching your head. AAE files are associated with Apple’s Photo app, and they store edits made to photos on iOS devices. While these files are typically not needed on Windows, there are ways to access the information they contain. Here’s a quick guide on how to open AAE files on Windows 10.
How to Open AAE Files on Windows 10
Opening AAE files on Windows 10 is not as straightforward as double-clicking a file. Since these files are essentially XML documents containing photo edit information, you’ll need a text editor to view them. The following steps will guide you through the process of opening AAE files on your Windows 10 computer.
Step 1: Locate the AAE File
Find the AAE file on your computer. It is usually stored in the same folder as the original photo.
When you transfer photos from an iOS device to your Windows computer, any edits made on the iOS device will be saved as AAE files. These files will have the same name as the original photo but with an .aae extension.
Step 2: Right-Click the AAE File
Right-click the AAE file and select "Open with" from the context menu.
This will bring up a list of programs you can use to open the file. If you don’t see the program you want, you can choose to browse for it.
Step 3: Select a Text Editor
Choose a text editor like Notepad or Notepad++ from the list.
Text editors will allow you to view the XML content of the AAE file. Notepad comes pre-installed on Windows, but Notepad++ offers a more feature-rich environment.
Step 4: Open the File
Click "OK" to open the file in your chosen text editor.
The AAE file will now open, displaying the XML code. This code contains information about the edits made to the corresponding photo.
Step 5: Interpret the XML Data
Read through the XML code to understand the edits.
While it might look confusing at first, the XML tags contain information about the changes made to the photo, like cropping, adjustments, and filters.
Once you’ve completed these steps, you’ll have access to the edit information stored in the AAE file. This can be useful if you want to manually apply these changes in a different photo editing software.
Tips for Opening AAE Files on Windows 10
- Use Notepad++: Notepad++ is more user-friendly for reading XML files than the standard Notepad.
- Keep Original Photos: Always keep the original photos in case you want to revert any changes.
- Understand XML Basics: Familiarize yourself with basic XML tags to better understand the data.
- Back Up Files: Make a backup of your AAE files before making any modifications.
- Use Dedicated Software: Consider using photo editing software that supports AAE files for a more seamless experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an AAE file?
An AAE file is an XML-based file created by Apple’s Photos app that stores edit information for photos.
Can I delete AAE files?
Yes, you can delete AAE files, but you will lose the edit information stored in them.
Why can’t I open AAE files on Windows?
AAE files are designed for Apple’s ecosystem and require a text editor to open on Windows.
Do I need special software to open AAE files?
No, you can use any standard text editor like Notepad or Notepad++.
Will deleting an AAE file affect my photo?
Deleting an AAE file will not affect the original photo but will remove any edits made to it.
Summary
- Locate the AAE file.
- Right-click the AAE file.
- Select a text editor.
- Open the file.
- Interpret the XML data.
Conclusion
Opening AAE files on Windows 10 might seem like a hassle, but it’s actually quite simple if you follow the steps outlined above. These files store valuable edit data, and while they’re more useful within Apple’s ecosystem, they can still be accessed on a Windows machine with the right tools. By using a text editor like Notepad or Notepad++, you’ll be able to view and interpret the XML code contained in AAE files. So, next time you stumble upon an AAE file, you’ll know exactly what to do! For further reading, you might want to look into XML parsing or photo editing software that can handle AAE files natively.
Kermit Matthews is a freelance writer based in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania with more than a decade of experience writing technology guides. He has a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Computer Science and has spent much of his professional career in IT management.
He specializes in writing content about iPhones, Android devices, Microsoft Office, and many other popular applications and devices.