.MXML File Extension
There is only one filetype that uses .MXML file extension and it is Flex MXML Component.
Flex MXML Component
| File category: | Developer Files |
|---|---|
| Developer: | Adobe |
| Open with: | Vim (+6 more) |
| Platforms: | Windows, macOS, Linux, iOS, Android, ChromeOS, iPadOS |
An MXML file is a type of markup file used to define the layout and behavior of user interfaces in applications built with Adobe Flex, a software development kit (SDK) for creating rich internet applications. These files are written using MXML (presumably Macromedia eXtensible Markup Language), a markup language designed specifically for Flex development.
MXML files play a key role in Flex projects by organizing and structuring how the user interface (UI) looks and interacts with the user. They are typically used alongside ActionScript (.as) files, which handle the logic and interactivity of the application.
MXML was introduced around 2004 as part of the early versions of the Macromedia Flex framework. After Adobe acquired Macromedia in 2005, MXML became a core part of Adobe Flex and continued to evolve.
MXML files are mainly used by developers to:
- Define user interface components such as buttons, menus, panels, and data grids
- Structure the layout of an application screen
- Bind UI elements to data sources
- Connect UI components to backend logic written in ActionScript
Because MXML is similar to XML, it's both human-readable and easy to edit using text editors or specialized development environments.
How to Open .MXML as Flex MXML Component
You can open and edit MXML files using:
- Adobe Flash Builder (previously Flex Builder) – a now-discontinued IDE designed specifically for Flex development
- Apache Flex SDK – the open-source continuation of Adobe Flex
- Text editors like Visual Studio Code, Sublime Text, or Notepad++ – these will open the file, but without the design tools of Flash Builder
- Eclipse IDE with the Flex plugin – for advanced development features
Keep in mind that to run or compile an MXML file into a working application, you'll need the Apache Flex SDK or an older version of Flash Builder.
How to Convert an MXML File
MXML files can be converted or compiled into other formats, typically as part of the build process:
- SWF (Shockwave Flash): MXML files are usually compiled into .swf files, which are executable Flash applications that run in a web browser or standalone Flash player.
- HTML5 or JavaScript: While not a direct one-step conversion, developers can migrate MXML-based Flex apps to modern platforms (like HTML5/JavaScript) using tools such as:
- FlexJS (now part of Apache Royale) – allows conversion of MXML to HTML and JavaScript
- Manual rewriting, especially when transitioning away from Flash technology
With Flash officially discontinued as of 2021, many developers have either archived their MXML projects or ported them to newer platforms.
Applications That Open MXML Files
Windows Apps for MXML Files:
- Vim Free
- Microsoft Visual Studio Code Free
- Notepad++ Free
- Microsoft Notepad Included with OS
-
Any text editor
Free
macOS Apps for MXML Files:
- Vim Free
- Microsoft Visual Studio Code Free
-
Apple TextEdit
Included with OS -
Any text editor
Free
Linux Apps for MXML Files:
- Vim Free
- Microsoft Visual Studio Code Free
- gedit Free
- Microsoft Notepad Included with OS
-
Any text editor
Free
iOS Apps for MXML Files:
-
Any text editor
Free
Android Apps for MXML Files:
-
Any text editor
Free
ChromeOS Apps for MXML Files:
-
Any text editor
Free
iPadOS Apps for MXML Files:
-
Any text editor
Free