PVR File Extension

What is PVR file?

PVR files are used by mobile devices based on PowerVR chips.

What kind of data can PVR files store?

PVR files are used for storing textures optimized for PowerVR graphics chips used by such devices as Sega Dreamcast console and various mobile devices. PVR files compressed texture data for better performance on weaker hardware.

How can I open a PVR file?

PVR files can be converted to other format using dedicated conversion tools. Many of such tools are available as plugins for various image editing applications. PowerVR hardware required texture data to be stored in PVR files.

Which devices use PowerVR technology?

Aside from Sega Dramcast game console, PowerVR chips are installed on many Apple devices, including iPhone series. PowerVR is a very efficient technology that offers great performance at a low cost. MediaTek also use PowerVR graphics in their SoC products.

Programs which support PVR file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open PVR files divided into 2 categories according to system platform supported. Files with PVR extension, just like any other file formats, can be found on any operating system. The files in question may be transferred to other devices, be it mobile or stationary, yet not all systems may be capable of properly handling such files.

Updated: 10/20/2022

How to open file with PVR extension?

Problems with accessing PVR may be due to various reasons. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to POWERVR Texture Format files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install PVRTexTool

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening PVR files is that no program that can handle PVR files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing PVRTexTool or different compatible program, such as Adobe Photoshop, Chankast. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading PVRTexTool installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Verify the you have the latest version of PVRTexTool

If you already have PVRTexTool installed on your systems and PVR files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that PVRTexTool cannot handle files with PVR may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of PVRTexTool should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate POWERVR Texture Format files with PVRTexTool

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate PVR files with latest version of PVRTexTool you have installed on your device. The process of associating file formats with default application may differ in details depending on platform, but the basic procedure is very similar.

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the PVR file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where PVRTexTool is installed, check the Always use this app to open PVR files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected PVR file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with PVR extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the PVR is not faulty

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the PVR file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Check the PVR file for viruses or malware

Should it happed that the PVR is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the PVR file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Verify that the PVR file’s structure is intact

If you obtained the problematic PVR file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. During the copy process of the file errors may occurred rendering the file incomplete or corrupted. This could be the source of encountered problems with the file. If the PVR file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Ensure that you have appropriate access rights

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle PVRTexTool

If the systems has insufficient resources to open PVR files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with POWERVR Texture Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle PVR files.

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