The "XCF format" (eXperimental Computing Facility) is the native file format of the open-source image editing software GIMP (GNU Image Manipulation Program). It is used to save image projects in a lossless manner, preserving all editing elements such as layers, paths, text objects, transparency settings, and effects. Unlike standard image formats like JPG or PNG, XCF allows for full restoration and continued editing of a project in GIMP without any data loss.
Saving multi-layered compositions: Support for layers, layer groups, masks, and channels for complex image editing.
Non-destructive editing: All editing steps remain editable without affecting the original image.
Path and vector management: Storage of vectors, paths, and selections within the image project.
Compatibility with GIMP plug-ins: Support for custom effects and filters that remain embedded in the XCF project.
Export to other formats: Ability to convert and continue processing in formats like PNG, JPG, TIFF, or PSD.
Text and typography preservation: Integration of editable text fields with font and styling data.
Transparency and alpha channel support: Management of transparency settings and alpha masks for precise cutouts.
A designer saves a GIMP project with multiple layers and text objects as an XCF file to continue editing it later.
A web developer creates a website layout using GIMP and uses the XCF format to keep design elements organized separately.
A photographer saves a retouched image with all correction layers and masks in an XCF file for future adjustments.
A creative team shares a complex banner design as an XCF file for collaborative editing in GIMP.
