File Extension Database

Open AEF File

AEF, standing for ArionFX External Save File, is an extension commonly paired with pictures or images adjusted with ArionFX. This software, developed by RandomControl, is used for post-processing HDR (High Dynamic Range) images, and the AEF extension is used specifically for saving the settings applied to an image. In other contexts, an AEF can refer to an Adobe After Effects Project File which stores timeline, visual effects and animations data.

ArionFX External Save File

As previously mentioned, an AEF file can stand for an ArionFX External Save File. This type of file contains adjustments, settings and enhancements made to photos or images using the ArionFX software. These files are typically used by photographers, graphic designers, and other professionals working with visual media. Once you've applied and saved various settings using ArionFX, you can save the project with an AEF extension. To open such files, users should use the ArionFX software. More information about ArionFX can be found here.

Adobe After Effects Project File

In another context, the AEF extension can refer to files from another well-known media-editing software: Adobe After Effects. These files typically contain timeline, visual effects and animations data, which can be read and manipulated using the appropriate software. To open AEF files in this context, you would require Adobe After Effects installed on your device. For more about Adobe After Effects, you can visit their official website.

Important Information: AEF Files

AEF files, regardless of the specific software they are associated with, are typically not meant to be converted into other formats. Instead, they are opened by the appropriate software (ArionFX or Adobe After Effects), manipulated as desired, and then exported into a more universally compatible format. This is important to remember, as attempts to rename or change the file extension without the proper procedures could lead to file corruption.

Despite both software using the same extension, a AEF file from ArionFX cannot be opened by Adobe After Effects, and vice versa. This can be confusing, so it's important to remember which software you used to generate the AEF file.

Regardless of the AEF file type, it's crucial to have the accurate software installed for proper access. By being aware of the differences and similarities between the two AEF file types, you can overcome any confusion and use both utilities to their fullest extent.

How Can I Open AEF File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open AEF file is to find a AEF file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a AEF file is not opened in an application and you instead get a "Windows can't open a file" error message you should try looking for an application which can open the file in question.
If you know the application which can open AEF file then run it and see if there is a File->Open main menu option in the application.
If you don't know the application which function as AEF file opener then try to search online for "AEF viewer", "application to open AEF file" or "open AEF file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open AEF file

How Can I Open AEF File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a AEF file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a AEF file is not opened in a Mac OS application and you instead get a "There is no application set to open the file" error message you can click on "Search App Store" in the error dialog and Mac OS will show you applications compatible with AEF file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as AEF file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open AEF file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open AEF file then try to search for "AEF viewer", "application to open AEF file" or "read AEF file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read AEF file

How Can I Open AEF File on Android

If you downloaded a AEF file on Android device you can open it by following steps below:

In the Android apps list on your Android device find "My Files" or "File manager" app and tap to start it.
Tap on "Downloads" folder inside the app.
You should see your downloaded AEF file in that folder.
Tap on the file. If Android device supports opening the file you downloaded it will open in the corresponding app.
If file does not open you can look for the corresponding app that can open the file by searching Android App Store for the "AEF".
If you cannot open the file with the apps from Android App Store it is possible that the file could only be opened on desktop platforms such as Windows or Mac OS. Try searching for "AEF viewer", "AEF file reader" online and see if any desktop applications can open it.
It is also possible that the file you downloaded is outdated and is no longer supported.

How to Open AEF File on iPhone or iPad

To open AEF File on iOS device follow steps below:

We advies to open Files app on your iPhone or iPad device. You can find it by swiping down on the home screen and typing "Files" in the search bar.
Tap on the Downloads folder on the Files app home screen.
You will see all files that you recently downloaded. Tap on the AEF file to view it.
If you have the right app that can open it it will automatically launch and open your file.
If you don't have the app which can open it you need to serch Apple app store for "AEF". This way you can find apps which can open AEF files.
If this doesn't help it is possible that your file could be opened only by the desktop application. To find an app which can open it on desktop look for "AEF viewer" or "AEF file" online in your favorite search engine.

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