All about ICON Files

The ICON file type is primarily associated with Chromium.

ICONFile Extension ICON
 File extension: ICON
File type:  icon file

What is an ICON file

ICON files mostly belong to Chromium. ICON files are specialized graphic files that store computer icon images. They are mainly used to represent program or folder icons in user interfaces.
Depending on the internal format, an ICON file may contain vector graphics (such as those created in the Source2 format used by Chromium projects) or be rendered as a PNG or JPEG image. In some cases, the file may even hold a 3D model format (see the Wavefront .obj file reference) or a X-Windows icon format used in Unix systems (information available at Hexagon).
These files are applied in several scenarios:
  • They serve as visual identifiers in operating systems and software applications.
  • They can include scalable vector data to maintain clarity at different sizes.
  • They sometimes use common raster formats that are editable with image software.
  • Rarely, they contain 3D model elements for advanced graphical applications.
    • To view or edit an ICON file, use software compatible with its internal format. For vector-based icons use vector graphic editors, and for PNG/JPEG based icons, standard image viewers or editors (like Adobe Photoshop, GIMP, or similar) usually work well. Handling a 3D icon file will require a 3D model viewer or converter tool.
    FilExt.com note: Understanding the file's internal format is key to choosing the right application for opening or converting the file.

    How do you open ICON files?

    You need a suitable software like Chromium to open an ICON file. Without proper software you will receive a Windows message "How do you want to open this file?" or "Windows cannot open this file" or a similar Mac/iPhone/Android alert. If you cannot open your ICON file correctly, try to right-click or long-press the file. Then click "Open with" and choose an application. You can also display a ICON file directly in the browser:. Just drag the file onto this browser window and drop it.

    Online ICON File Viewer

    Choose your .icon file to view this image
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    How to convert an ICON file to SVG, PDF, JPG, PNG, ...

    If you want to convert or edit an ICON file, you can use our free Online ICON File Converter (powered by Convert.Guru):
    1. To do so, click the "Choose your .icon file to view this image" button above.
    2. After your file is opened in browser,
    3. click "Save as..." in the menu.
    4. Then choose the image format (e.g. SVG, PDF, JPG, PNG, ...) you want.
    5. Download the converted file.

    Programs that open and convert ICON files:

    1. Chromium
      See the previous paragraphs to learn more about the main application. ICON files are often referred to as Chromium vector images because this type of file is primarily created or used by this software.
    2. UNIX
      Typically lower case on *nix systems. Related links: XnView

    Technical Data for ICON File Extension

    File classification:
    Vector Image
    Related files:
    ico, icns, cur, icons, _icon_, fx, spbm, enc, file, zip, sh, plot, hf, svg, png, jpg, bmp, obj
    Related links:
    XnView

    The following listing is compiled from the database produced by the 'Associate This!' program, selected data from the main FILExt database and file extension information submitted by users.

    ProgramID: GraphicsConverterPro.icon, FileType: Sun Icon/Cursor, AppName: GraphicsConverter-reg
    EXEFile: GraphicsConverter.exe
    ProgramID: TheGIMP20
    EXEFile: %ProgramFiles%\GIMP-2.2\bin\gimp-win-remote.exe %1
    ProgramID: XnView.Image
    EXEFile: %ProgramFiles%\XnView\xnview.exe %1
    ProgramID: TheGIMP20
    EXEFile: %ProgramFiles%\GIMP-2.0\bin\gimp-win-remote.exe gimp-2.2.exe %1
    ProgramID: GIMP-2.0-xbm
    EXEFile: %ProgramFiles%\Gimp-2.0\bin\gimp-2.6.exe
    Show all 5 listingsTo Top

    an icon icon file is a special file format and should only be edited and saved with the appropriate software.

    How to solve problems with ICON files

    • Associate the ICON file extension with the correct application.
    • Update your software that should actually open icon files. Because only the current version supports the latest ICON file format. Search, therefore, e.g. on the manufacturer website after an available Chromium update.
    • To make sure that your ICON file is not corrupted or virus-infected, get the file again and scan it with Google's virustotal.com.
    • Click here to open your .ICON file online - secure, fast, and no downloads needed.
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    ICON file viewer ICON file description