What is a .XLS file?
An XLS file is a type of spreadsheet file primarily created and used by Microsoft Excel, a popular spreadsheet program. This file format was commonly used before the introduction of the XLSX format with Microsoft Excel 2007. Despite being older, XLS files are still compatible with many spreadsheet applications.
The content of an XLS file includes one or more worksheets, which are spaces where data is stored in tables. These tables can organize numbers, text, and formulas which perform calculations. Additionally, XLS files can contain various features like charts, different styles, and complex formatting to help present data more effectively.
Although Microsoft now uses the XLSX format for newer versions of Excel, XLS files can still be opened and edited with several programs. Here are some of the main programs that can handle XLS files: 1. **Microsoft Excel 365**: The latest version of Microsoft Excel, which supports both opening and editing XLS files. 2. **OpenOffice Calc and LibreOffice**: Free, open-source office suites that include spreadsheet programs capable of handling XLS files. 3. **Apple Numbers**: Included with macOS, this program can open and sometimes convert XLS files. 4. **Google Sheets**: Available through Google Drive, this web-based application allows users to open and edit XLS files directly in a web browser. 5. **Corel Quattro Pro 2021**: Part of Corel's office suite, this program also supports XLS files. 6. **Kingsoft Spreadsheets and SoftMaker Office**: These are alternative office suites that provide support for opening and editing XLS files. 7. **File Viewer Plus**: A versatile file viewer for Windows that can open XLS files among many other file types. 8. **Mobile Apps**: Various mobile applications on iOS and Android, such as MobiSystems OfficeSuite Pro, Infraware Polaris Office, and Kingsoft WPS Office, also support XLS files, allowing users to view and edit them on mobile devices. 9. **Web-based options**: Besides Google Sheets, other web platforms like Polaris Office Web Sheet provide tools to handle XLS files online.
These programs make it possible to continue using XLS files for data storage, analysis, and presentation, despite the older format.
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