AAE File Extension
Sidecar Image Edit File
- File Type aae
- Developer Apple
- Popularity
- Application Apple Photos
- Category Settings Files
- Format XML
What is a AAE file?
Sidecar Image Edit File, identified by the AAE extension, is a Settings Files type and includes 1190 files.
The Sidecar Image Edit File (AAE) was developed by Apple, which created file format and 72 programs to work with them.
AAE files are supported by Mac OS, as well as mobile phones such as Apple iOS. To open a AAE file, you can choose from 4 programs such as Apple Photos, Apple iOS and macOS X.
How to open a AAE file?
If you cannot open a AAE file, it is most often due to missing software. Select a program from the list according to your operating system. Then go to the official website of the program developer, download it, and install it on your device.
The most popular programs for working with AAE files are Apple Photos, Apple iOS and macOS X. To install the latest version of Apple Photos on your computer, visit the Apple website where you can download the version available for all operating systems.
After completing the installation, AAE files should be recognized by the system and linked to Apple Photos.
Set Apple Photos as the default AAE application
Changing the default program in Windows
- Right click on your AAE file, then select "Open with" and click "Choose another application";
- From the options listed in the pop-up window, specifically choose Apple Photos as the application to handle your AAE file;
- Be sure to check the "Always use this app" checkbox and click "OK" to save your preference.
Change the default app that opens a file on Mac
- Right-click or use Control + Left-click on the desired AAE file to open a menu where you can choose from multiple actions;
- Select "Open in application" and click "Other";
- In the lower section of the window, you’ll find the "Enable" menu, with "Recommended Programs" pre-selected as the default option;
- Select "All Programs" in this menu, and then search for Apple Photos. Check the box next to "Always open in app" to make sure it’s the default option.
How to edit a AAE file?
To edit AAE files, you need to install specialized software that allows you not only to open but also to modify settings files. Online AAE editors usually provide fewer features than software created specifically for Sidecar Image Edit File.
List of Top AAE editors 2026
Taking the above factors into account, we have selected a list of AAE editors currently available.
| AAE Editor Software | Developer | Platforms | Overall Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Apple Photos | Apple | Mac OS | 4.7 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
| Apple iOS | Apple | Apple iOS | 4.5 out of 5 (37 reviews) |
Troubleshooting guide for AAE file complications
While AAE files can sometimes present difficulties, most problems can be resolved quickly with minor software modifications. Check the tips below to help solve them.
How do I know if my AAE file is corrupted?
Corrupted AAE settings files may have one or more of the following symptoms:
- Opening the file results in an error or a failed attempt;
- Poor performance when editing a file in Apple iOS;
- Opening the file in Apple Photos or other programs causes them to hang or crash;
- Unexpected expansion of the total size of the AAE file;
- Error messages appear while working with the file;
Why does Apple Photos crash?
The likely cause of Apple Photos crashing is lack of software updates. Install the latest updates available for Apple products.
Restarting your computer is a crucial troubleshooting measure that can alleviate numerous common problems. Therefore, it is advisable to restart your computer before modifying any settings related to the software.
How to repair a corrupted AAE file?
Open the corrupted AAE file in a recovery program and select the "Repair" menu item. Allow the recovery process to complete, which will automatically repair the damaged settings files.