File Extension Database

Open WORLD File

A WORLD file, or .world extension file, plays a crucial role in various areas such as Geographical Information Systems (GIS) and Robotics Simulations Software. These files are generally used to store spatial calibration information or robotics environments definitions, thus being an integral part of being able to work effectively in these domains.

Geographical Information Systems (GIS) WORLD Files

WORLD files in the context of GIS are text files used to georeference raster map images. The file holds georeferencing information that ensures the raster image matches with map coordinates on the GIS program. The most common GIS applications to open WORLD files are QGIS and Esri's ArcGIS Pro.

Robotics Simulation Software WORLD Files

In robotics, WORLD files are used as environment definition files for robotics simulation software. These files are typically written in XML and define the properties, shapes, and locations of objects in the simulated world. A prime example of a software utilizing these files is the Robot Operating System (ROS) and its simulation environments such as Gazebo.

How to Open and Use WORLD Files

The opening and usage of .world files tend to be specific to the context in which these files are used. For GIS applications, upon loading the related raster image, the .world file will be automatically loaded if it's located in the same directory as the raster image. In the context of robotics, the .world file is typically loaded when launching the simulation environment in the simulation software (like Gazebo). A .world file can be opened with any standard text editor (like Notepad, Vim, or Emacs) or using XML editors for better view of the structure.

WORLD File Important Information

While working with WORLD files, it's necessary to remember that they follow this general rule: the world file name is the image file name (without extension) with the letters 'w' appended. Additionally, WORLD files are not stand-alone. They are designed to be utilized together with a related raster image or robotics simulation software.

Despite these points, WORLD files play a crucial role in different sectors and significantly ease tasks related to map image georeferencing and robotic simulation. Always ensure your WORLD files are accurately formatted and properly located to guarantee smooth processes in GIS or robotics operations.

How Can I Open WORLD File on Windows

We researched and learned that the best way to open WORLD file is to find a WORLD file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a WORLD 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 WORLD 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 WORLD file opener then try to search online for "WORLD viewer", "application to open WORLD file" or "open WORLD file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open WORLD file

How Can I Open WORLD File on Mac OS

We recommend to find a WORLD file in question in Mac OS Finder and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a WORLD 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 WORLD file.
If you know the Mac OS application which can work as WORLD file opener you can choose the "Choose Application..." option in the error box to associate the file extension and open WORLD file in it.
If you don't know the application which can open WORLD file then try to search for "WORLD viewer", "application to open WORLD file" or "read WORLD file" queries in the online search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can read WORLD file

How Can I Open WORLD File on Android

If you downloaded a WORLD 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 WORLD 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 "WORLD".
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 "WORLD viewer", "WORLD 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 WORLD File on iPhone or iPad

To open WORLD 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 WORLD 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 "WORLD". This way you can find apps which can open WORLD 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 "WORLD viewer" or "WORLD file" online in your favorite search engine.

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