OpenRaster is a file format proposed for the common exchange of layered images between raster graphics editors. It is meant as a replacement for later versions of the Adobe PSD format. OpenRaster is still in development and so far is supported by a few programs.[1] The default file extension for OpenRaster files is ".ora".
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For many years the Adobe Photoshop PSD file format was used as a cross-application file format for layered images. Adobe allowed this by releasing the format's specifications publicly. However, in 2006 Adobe changed this license to only grant access to and use of the specifications and documentation "for the purposes of internally developing Developer Programs in connection with Adobe Software products and incorporating portions or all of the Sample Code into Developer Programs."[2] In response to these restrictions, the OpenRaster format was proposed at the first Libre Graphics Meeting at Lyon, France in the spring of 2006 and is drawn from the Open Document Format.[3]
Following features should be present:
A major problem is that because all features aren't available in all the programs, An image won't be displayed the same way in different applications, especially for adjustement/filters layers. And "viewer" applications like Inkscape or Scribus won't have any implementation at all of those features.
A likely work-around is the optional storage of a redundant extra layer containing the fully rendered pixel data as seen after all image processing, or possibly a lower-resolution snapshot of it suitable for previewing and thumbnailing.
Different implementations levels might be defined, like, tiny, simple, small, normal, full and custom.
OpenRaster has limited support in a few graphics programs and among these its cross-application use is not seamless.
| Application | Status |
|---|---|
| MyPaint | Default working file format.[4] |
| GIMP | Planned[5] + external plug-in.[6] |
| Krita | Supported.[7] |
| DrawPile | Basic (development version)[8] |
| Nathive | Default format since 0.908.[9] |
| Pinta | Supported starting with version 0.4.[10] |
| XnView | Supported starting with version 1.98.1 [11] |