PDF Asset Export for iOS Applications
PDF in iOS Asset Catalog is not the same as PDF document. It's simplified vector that Xcode uses as source for rendering icons and simple graphics at needed scale.
When PDF Makes Sense
For monochrome icons and simple shapes without gradients and complex masks — PDF wins. One file instead of three PNGs, automatic scaling for @2x and @3x, smaller size in Assets.xcassets. With Preserve Vector Data enabled and Single Scale setting in asset inspector, rendering happens at Core Graphics level without pixelization.
For multi-color illustrations with raster elements PDF doesn't fit — Xcode may interpret transparency and color profiles differently than expected. In such cases stick with PNG @3x.
How to Export Correctly
In Figma: select frame or component, in Export set PDF format. Before export — Flatten layers where there are complex boolean operations, otherwise Figma generates extra clipping paths. File exports without embedded raster images.
In Xcode: drag PDF into Asset Catalog, in right inspector: Scale → Single Scale, check Preserve Vector Data checkbox. After that, icon renders vector in UIImageView with tintColor and scales correctly with Dynamic Type.
If PDF contained colors — they'll be preserved and tintColor won't override them. For template icons (managed by tintColor) need monochrome PDF with single fill color.
What's Included
- Export of vector assets from Figma / Sketch to PDF
- Asset Catalog setup with correct Single Scale and Preserve Vector Data parameters
- Verification of display on simulator at different sizes and themes
Timeline
Export and setup of full app icon set: 2–3 hours. Cost is calculated individually.