Extract text from OmniGraffle and Apple Pencil files (DRAWING)
To convert DRAWING drawings to another format, you need OmniGraffle or other Vector Image software.
To convert other file formats to the "Diagram and Drawing File" file type, you need software like OmniGraffle or a similar tool.
The .DRAWING file extension is primarily used by two distinct macOS and iOS ecosystems. Most commonly, it is an OmniGraffle diagram file created by The Omni Group. These files store vector graphics, flowcharts, and wireframes, often utilizing Apple's internal PLIST (Property List) structure. The second major use case is for drawing data generated by Apple PencilKit, typically found when sketching inside Apple Notes. A minor use includes Artboard Drawing files developed by Mapdiva.
The main disadvantage of the .DRAWING format is its strict proprietary nature and ecosystem lock-in. You cannot open an OmniGraffle file natively on Windows or Linux, and viewing a PencilKit drawing usually requires an Apple device or an active iCloud session. Relying on this format for collaboration often forces the recipient to purchase a $50+ OmniGraffle license or use a specific Apple hardware setup.
To share these files universally, the best conversion targets are PDF for document preservation, SVG for cross-platform vector editing, or PNG for web viewing. Because these are closed, proprietary formats built on complex macOS frameworks, standard online converters fail to process them. Often, only the original software can properly read or export the geometric data and metadata. However, just drag and drop your file to see what it is and convert it if supported. convert.guru can identify the file format, inspect the package, and show readable text or internal content. If our analysis detects an underlying PLIST or embedded image assets, partial viewing or extraction may still be possible.
Convert.Guru analyzes your DRAWING file, detects the exact format, and lets you read the text inside.
Users also converted DWG, JPG, PDF, ODG, VSD, SKETCH, IMAGE and ANIMATION files.
If you want to convert DRAWING file to PDF, IMAGE, ANIMATION, SKETCH, SVG, AI, EPS, JPG, CDR, WMF, EMF or SWF, you can use OmniGraffle or similar software from the "Vector Graphics Storage" category. In the File menu, look for Save As… or Export….
To convert AFPUB, EPS, FIG, VSD, SKETCH, VDX, AFPHOTO, PDF, AFDESIGN, SVG, VSDX or AI files to DRAWING, try OmniGraffle or another comparable tool in the "Vector Graphics Storage" category.
The history of Convert.Guru began over 25 years ago in California with Tom Simondi’s file-format database. A former contributor to Space Shuttle development and a software pioneer of the 1980s, Simondi established a trusted resource for file type analysis that was even referenced by Microsoft Windows XP. Today, we use modern technology to process and convert thousands of file formats while continually improving our DRAWING converter.