Design and Implementation of a Python-Based LIVP Live Photo Conversion Tool

  • Jiaming Wang School of Artificial Intelligence and Computer Science, North China University of Technology, Beijing 100144, China
Keywords: LIVP, Live photo, File conversion, Python, Tkinter

Abstract

This paper presents the design and implementation of a Python-based conversion tool for Apple Live Photo files (.livp). The tool converts .livp files into standard image formats (JPEG/HEIC/PNG) by renaming them to .zip and extracting the static images while optionally removing the embedded short video (.mov). It supports one-click batch processing of all .livp files within a folder. The software adopts a modular design, consisting of file renaming, batch decompression, temporary file cleaning, and a Tkinter-based graphical user interface (GUI). A multithreading mechanism ensures a smooth user experience without interface freezing. With a compact size of approximately 10.7 MB, the software is easy to deploy and suitable for users who need to batch-convert Live Photos into static images. This paper introduces the system design, key implementation details, performance analysis, and potential improvements, providing references for developing lightweight format conversion applications.

References

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Apple Inc., n.d., “LivePhoto” (UTType). https://developer.apple.com/documentation/uniformtypeid entifiers/uttype-swift.struct/livephoto

Filext, n.d., LIVP File Extension: What is it? How to Open a LIVP File? https://filext.com/file-extension/LIVP

Stack Overflow Contributors, 2015, Apple Live Photo File Format. https://stackoverflow.com/questions/32508375/apple-live-photo-file-format

Library of Congress Preservation, 2020, High Efficiency Image File Format, HEIC/HEIX Brands. https://www.loc.gov/preservation/digital/formats/fdd/fdd000526.shtml

Python Software Foundation, n.d., Tkinter: Python Interface to Tcl/Tk. https://docs.python.org/3/library/tkinter.html

PyInstaller Developers, n.d., PyInstaller Manual. https://www.pyinstaller.org/

Published
2025-12-16