File Extension Database

Open XAR File

XAR files, with the extension '.xar', can refer to a type of archive file or a document file. These files are used for various purposes, depending on their format. In this article, we will discuss the different types of XAR files and their uses, along with the recommended software and practices for opening and using these files.

XAR Archive Files

XAR archive files, also known as eXtensible ARchive files, are a type of compressed archive file used to store multiple files or directories and their metadata in a single compressed file. One of the primary uses of XAR archive files is for the distribution of macOS software packages, making it easier for developers to package their applications and distribute them to end-users. XAR archive files are also used for storing and managing XML-based documents and related assets.

To open and extract XAR archive files, users can utilize various software utilities. Some popular tools include:

The Unarchiver (macOS) - A free and versatile archive extraction tool that supports XAR files, among many other formats.
XAR project (macOS, Linux) - The official open-source XAR library and command-line utility.
PeaZip (Windows, Linux) - A free, cross-platform file archiver that supports XAR file format for extraction and creation.

Xara Designer Pro Document Files

XAR files can also be document files created by Xara Designer Pro, a graphic design software developed by Xara Group Ltd. These files contain vector drawings or illustrations, photo compositions, and website designs in a single document, enabling graphic designers to create professional and complex designs with ease.

To open and edit Xara Designer Pro XAR files, users must utilize the appropriate software:

Xara Designer Pro (Windows) - The primary software for creating and editing XAR document files.
Xara Xtreme (Linux) - An open-source version of Xara's graphic design software.

XAR File Important Information

It is essential for users to identify the specific format of a XAR file before attempting to open it, as the required software and procedures may differ. Also, while there are various software options available for opening and using XAR files, it's always recommended to use the most compatible and widely acknowledged tools for seamless file handling.

In conclusion, XAR files serve different purposes, whether as archive files or graphic design documents. Several software tools can be used to open and work with these files, depending on the XAR format. By understanding the function of the specific XAR file and using the appropriate software, users can effectively and efficiently manage or create XAR files across platforms.

How to Open XAR File on Windows

Find a XAR file in question in Windows OS File Explorer and double click on it to launch the corresponding application.
If a XAR 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 XAR 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 XAR file opener then try to search online for "XAR viewer", "application to open XAR file" or "open XAR file" queries in the search engine you like.
Install the application you found and check if it can open XAR file

How to Open XAR File on Mac OS

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

How to Open XAR File on Android

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

To open XAR File on iOS device follow steps below:

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

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