XA File Extension

What is XA file?

XA is a file extension commonly associated with The Sims Audio Format files. Electronic Arts defined the The Sims Audio Format format standard. Files with XA extension may be used by programs distributed for Android, Linux, Mac OS, Windows platform. XA file belongs to the Audio Files category just like 771 other filename extensions listed in our database. Users are advised to use The Sims software for managing XA files, although 5 other programs can also handle this type of file. On the official website of Electronic Arts, Inc. developer not only will you find detailed information about theThe Sims software, but also about XA and other supported file formats.

Programs which support XA file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XA files, divided into 4 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with XA 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.

How to open file with XA extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening XA files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with XA files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install The Sims software

Problems with opening and working with XA files are most probably having to do with no proper software compatible with XA files being present on your machine. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing The Sims or different compatible program, such as VLC media player. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download The Sims installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Electronic Arts, Inc. website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Update The Sims to the latest version

If the problems with opening XA files still occur even after installing The Sims, it is possible that you have an outdated version of the software. Check the developer’s website whether a newer version of The Sims is available. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. If you have an older version of The Sims installed, it may not support XA format. The latest version of The Sims should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open XA files to The Sims

After installing The Sims (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open XA files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the XA file
• 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 The Sims is installed, check the Always use this app to open XA files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with XA extension, select Information
• Find the Open with option – click the title if its hidden
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with XA extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Verify that the XA is not faulty

If you followed the instructions form the previous steps yet the issue is still not solved, you should verify the XA file in question. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The XA may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the XA is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the XA file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

If the XA file was sent to you by someone else, ask this person to resend the file to you. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. If the XA file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

Some files require elevated access rights to open them. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the The Sims Audio Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open The Sims

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with XA extension. In this case close the other applications.

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 The Sims Audio Format file. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle XA files.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the XA file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on XA file.