ConvertWhat happens when you convert AI to ICNS
- The artwork is drawn at the resolution you choose, and empty areas stay transparent wherever ICNS supports it.
- Works with AI files saved with "Create PDF Compatible File", which is Illustrator's default.
- The ICNS file contains every size macOS uses, from 16×16 to 1024×1024 (Retina), stored as PNG.
- For the sharpest icon, start with a square image of at least 1024×1024. Other shapes are centered with transparent padding.
AI vs ICNS
| Feature | AI | ICNS |
|---|---|---|
| Compression | Vector | Lossless |
| Transparency | Yes | Yes |
| Animation | No | No |
| Colors | 16.7M+ | 16.7M |
| Best for | Logos, illustrations, print | Mac app and folder icons |
How to convert AI to ICNS
- Drop your AI files on the box above, or click it to choose files. You can add many at once.
- Adjust the options if you want. The defaults work well for most files.
- Click Download for each ICNS file, or "Download all" to get a ZIP.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to convert my files here?
Yes. Conversion happens entirely in your browser. Your files are never uploaded to a server, so nobody else can see them.
Is it free? Are there limits?
It's completely free, with no sign-up, watermarks or daily limits. The only limit is your device's memory for very large files.
Can I convert many AI files at once?
Yes. Drop as many files as you like; they're converted one after another and you can download them all as a ZIP.
Will converting AI to ICNS reduce quality?
Pages are drawn fresh at the resolution you pick, so text and vector shapes stay sharp. Use 300 dpi for print-quality images.
Does ICNS keep transparency?
Yes, ICNS supports transparency and it's kept.
What about documents with several pages?
Each page becomes its own image, named with its page number, and you can download them all as a ZIP.
How do I use the ICNS file?
In Finder, select an app or folder, press ⌘I, then drag the .icns file onto the small icon at the top of the Info window. In an app bundle, it goes in Contents/Resources.