XPS (XML Paper Specification)
Microsoft's fixed-layout document format that packages pages, fonts, and vector graphics inside a single ZIP archive.
| Full name | XML Paper Specification |
| Extension | .xps |
| MIME type | application/vnd.ms-xpsdocument |
| Developer | Microsoft |
| Released | 2006 (version 1.0, October 18, 2006) |
| Type | Document |
| Standard | ECMA-388 (adopted June 2009) |
| Container | ZIP archive (Open Packaging Conventions) |
What is a XPS file?
XPS is a fixed-layout document format created by Microsoft. It stores every page as XML markup alongside embedded fonts, images, and vector graphics in a ZIP package. The format was designed to produce identical output regardless of the printer or viewer used.
An XPS file is a ZIP archive that follows the Open Packaging Conventions. Inside, each page is described in a subset of XAML, Microsoft's XML-based markup language for visual layouts. The format captures text, vector shapes, raster images, and color profiles together, so the document looks the same on any machine that can open it. It supports digital rights management and digital signatures at the package level.
History
Microsoft first announced XPS, codenamed 'Metro', alongside Windows Vista and .NET Framework 3.0. Version 1.0 of the specification was published on October 18, 2006, and shipped with Windows Vista and the 2007 Microsoft Office system in early 2007. In June 2009, Ecma International standardized it as ECMA-388, also called OpenXPS, though PDF remained the dominant fixed-layout format.
How it works
An XPS file is a valid ZIP archive. Unzipping it reveals a directory tree that holds one XML file per page, a relationships file that links parts together, and folders for fonts, images, and other resources. Page markup uses XAML elements such as Path and Glyphs to describe vector shapes and text runs precisely. The Open Packaging Conventions layer defines how parts relate to each other through relationship files stored alongside each content part.
What it is used for
- Printing and archiving Windows documents with guaranteed layout fidelity
- Exchanging official reports or forms generated by Windows applications
- Storing digitally signed documents that must not be altered
- Viewing documents on Windows devices without needing the original authoring software
How to open it
On Windows, XPS files open in the built-in XPS Viewer (included with Windows Vista and later) or in Microsoft Edge. On other operating systems, you can convert an XPS file to PDF using an online converter and then open it in any PDF reader.
Pros and cons
Strengths
- Fixed layout means the document looks identical on every Windows device
- Supports vector graphics, so text and shapes stay sharp at any zoom level
- Built-in digital signature support for tamper-evident documents
- The ZIP container keeps file sizes relatively compact compared to raw XML
Trade-offs
- Very limited support outside of Windows; no native viewer on macOS, Linux, or mobile
- Never displaced PDF, so recipients often need to convert before sharing
- Few applications can create XPS files outside of the Windows print dialog
- Digital rights management restrictions can block copying or printing
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XPS FAQ
Is XPS the same as OpenXPS?
They are closely related but not identical. XPS is Microsoft's original 2006 format. OpenXPS (ECMA-388) is the 2009 Ecma International standard based on XPS. Most files you encounter use the original Microsoft XPS format with the .xps extension.
Can I open an XPS file without installing anything on Windows?
Yes. Windows Vista and all later versions include the XPS Viewer application. On Windows 10 and 11, Microsoft Edge can also open XPS files directly.
How do I convert XPS to PDF?
You can use an online XPS-to-PDF converter, the Windows print dialog (print to Microsoft Print to PDF), or tools like Ghostscript. Once converted, the file opens in any standard PDF reader.
Why did XPS fail to replace PDF?
XPS was only well-supported on Windows and in Microsoft software. PDF had years of cross-platform adoption, a large ecosystem of tools, and support from Adobe and third parties. Users and businesses had no strong reason to switch.