ANI File Type

- The quick facts

What are ANI files and how to open them

Are you having problems opening an ANI file or just wondering what they contain? We explain what these files are used for and show you software that we know can open or otherwise handle your files.

What is an ANI file?

ANI files have multiple uses, and Windows Animated Cursor is one of them.

Windows Animated Cursor

Files with the .ani file extension contain animated cursors that are used with Microsoft Windows.

The ANI file contains the images that make up the animated mouse pointer (cursor). The .ani file extension is used for default Windows cursors, but files with the .ani file extension may also contain custom cursors designed by professional or hobby designers.

ANI files are often included with custom Windows desktop themes that users download to customize the "look and feel" of their Windows desktop. For example, a "race car" theme may include an ANI cursor that looks like a race car instead of the standard Windows arrow icon.

How to open ANI files

We have identified 2 ANI openers that are compatible with this specific type of ANI file.

Programs that open Windows Animated Cursor files

Last updated: February 27, 2022

All known file formats using extension .ANI

While Windows Animated Cursor is a popular type of ANI-file, we know of 6 different uses of the .ANI extension. Different software may use files with the same extension for different types of data.

PC-Animation Video

Animation format used in the Hugo video game by Interactive Television Entertainment (ITE) Media ApS.

While we have not verified the apps ourselves yet, our users have suggested 10 different ANI openers which you will find listed below.

More file formats using the ANI extension

Through our research of ANI files, we know that the following formats exist. However, we have not yet analyzed them in detail, and we would love to hear from you if you have information about either of them.

Atari ST NEOchrome Animation

Eternity Game Engine Animation

MST Quintus Animation

PC Animate Plus Animation

Various apps that use files with this extension

These apps are known to open certain types of ANI files. Remember, different programs may use ANI files for different purposes, so you may need to try out a few of them to be able to open your specific file.