Windows
Compatible applications
Quick Facts
Basic information about this file format
Extension
.AIFF
File Type
Audio Interchange File Format
Category
Audio
Best first step
Use compatible software
Quick Summary
A practical overview of the .aiff file format
The Audio Interchange File Format (AIFF) is an audio file format standard used for storing sound data for personal computers and other electronic audio devices. Developed by Apple Inc. in 1988, AIFF is most commonly used on Apple Macintosh systems. The format is based on Electronic Arts' Interchang…
File extension
.AIFF
File type
Audio Interchange File Format
Category
Audio
Recommended action
Open with a trusted compatible app
How to open a .aiff file
Start with a trusted app that supports this format
- Check the file extension carefully and confirm that the file name really ends with .aiff.
- Use software that supports this file type. If one app does not work, try another compatible program for the same platform.
- Update the application if the file was created by a newer version of the software.
- Scan files from unknown sources before opening them, especially documents, archives, scripts, installers, and executable files.
What is a .aiff file?
File extension details and usage information
The Audio Interchange File Format (AIFF) is an audio file format standard used for storing sound data for personal computers and other electronic audio devices. Developed by Apple Inc. in 1988, AIFF is most commonly used on Apple Macintosh systems. The format is based on Electronic Arts' Interchange File Format (IFF) and is similar to the WAV format, which is widely used on Windows systems. AIFF files are uncompressed, meaning they retain the full fidelity of the original audio recording. This results in larger file sizes compared to compressed audio formats like MP3. AIFF supports various bit depths, sample rates, and channels, making it suitable for professional audio production and archiving. While AIFF is less common for general audio distribution due to its larger size, it remains a popular choice for audio editing, mastering, and storing high-quality audio data. AIFF files typically have a .aiff or .aif extension.
Software Compatibility
Programs that may open or work with .aiff files
macOS
Compatible applications
Linux
Compatible applications
Mobile
Mobile applications
Can .aiff files be converted?
Options for saving or exporting this file to another format
In many cases, a .aiff file can be converted by opening it in compatible software and using an option such as Save As, Export, or Convert. The available output formats depend on the file type and the application used.
- Use the original software that created the file when possible.
- Check whether the application supports exporting to common formats.
- Be careful with online converters when working with private, business, or sensitive files.
- If conversion fails, the file may be corrupted, incomplete, encrypted, or not actually a .aiff file.
Why can't I open a .aiff file?
Common reasons this file type may not open correctly
Wrong software
The file may require a specific program that supports the .aiff format.
Incorrect extension
The file extension may have been renamed manually, even though the actual file format is different.
Corrupted file
The file may be incomplete, damaged during download, or transferred incorrectly.
Outdated app
Your software may need to be updated before it can open newer versions of this file format.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about .aiff files
To open a .aiff file, use software that supports this file format.
- Windows Media Player
- Audacity
- VLC Media Player
- Adobe Audition
- WavePad
Open the file in compatible software and look for options such as Save As, Export, or Convert. If no export option is available, the file may require a specialized converter or the original application that created it.
- Verify that the file extension is correct.
- Install or update compatible software.
- Try another application that supports this format.
- Check whether the file is corrupted, incomplete, or encrypted.
A file extension alone does not guarantee whether a file is safe or unsafe. Only open files from trusted sources, scan unknown files before opening them, and be especially careful with executable, script, archive, and document files.
File safety tips
Use caution with unknown files
Only open files from trusted sources. Before opening a .aiff file, scan it with antivirus software, verify that the file extension is expected, and avoid running unknown executable, installer, macro-enabled document, or script files.