XPS file format
| Extension | .xps |
| Category | documents |
| Programs | Evince XPS Viewer MuPDF Harlequin RIP Okular STDU Viewer Xara DEsigner Pro XPS Annotator |
| Main program | XPSView |
| Description | The open XML paper specification is known as XPS and is a structured XML markup used to dictate how document pages are displayed. This markup language is a subset of XAML, allowing for the inclusion of vector graphics in documents. Microsoft developed XPS with the goal of providing an alternative to PDF. This file format has been adopted as an international standard by Ecma International under ECMA-388. |
| Technical details | XPS is a subset of XAML, consisting of structured markup used to define the appearance of a document for distribution, storage, development, and printing purposes. XAML allows users to incorporate vector graphics elements easily, as their description is informal and straightforward. Raster images support high-definition images, preventing the appearance of artifacts and reducing the workload on computer processes. Operating systems include print spooler formats with the capability to print from printers that are not XPS-aware, resulting in lower quality images compared to those that are XPS-aware. Supported features of XPS files include printing arrangements, color gradients, transparency, calibrated printers, CMYK color spaces, and various ink systems. |
| MIME type | application/oxps application/vnd.ms-xpsdocument |