Apple iPhoto library archive
File type: Various data file
The .iplb file extension identifies an Apple iPhoto library archive. It belongs to iPhoto, Apple's photo management and editing application for Mac OS X.
An IPLB file stores library data used by iPhoto, rather than representing a single photo.
File type category:
Various data file
Date updated: October 2, 2026
The IPLB file extension is associated with iPhoto, a photo management and editing application developed by Apple. An IPLB file is an archive containing data from an iPhoto library, including information used to organize and manage the library's photos.
The archive is intended for use by iPhoto and is not normally edited manually. iPhoto was supplied with older versions of Mac OS X and was later replaced by Apple's Photos application, so IPLB is a legacy format.
Open or restore an IPLB file with iPhoto on a Mac running a compatible version of Mac OS X. Use iPhoto's library-opening or restore options if double-clicking the file does not open it directly.
Current macOS versions may not include iPhoto. In that case, use a Mac with a compatible iPhoto installation to access the archive, then export the photos or other library content.
Restore the archive in iPhoto and use iPhoto's export functions to save its photos in supported image formats.
Software applications that handle other tasks involving iplb files:
Apple macOS / Mac OS X
iPhoto
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