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Glossary

What is SVG in EPUB?

Updated:

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is the XML vector image format allowed in EPUB 3, either as image files or inline in content documents. Unlike JPEG or PNG, it stays sharp at any size.

Why it matters when you convert a PDF to EPUB

Charts and diagrams in a PDF are often vector drawings; converting them to SVG keeps them sharp, while rasterising them is simpler and more compatible with older readers. Fixed-layout pages built as SVG need a viewBox.

Related terms

EPUBCheck messages about this

  • HTM-048 SVG Fixed-Layout Documents must have a "viewBox" attribute (on the outermost "svg" element).
  • RSC-015 A fragment identifier is required for svg use tag references.
  • RSC-009 A non-SVG image resource should not be defined with a fragment identifier.
  • OPF-014 The property "…" should be declared in the OPF file.
  • HTM_062 SVG "xlink:href" attribute is deprecated; an "href" attribute should be used instead.
  • HTM_063 SVG "xlink:href" attribute value ("…") should be equal to the "href" attribute value ("…").
  • ACC-011 SVG hyperlink has no accessible name

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FAQ

What is SVG in EPUB?

SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics) is the XML vector image format allowed in EPUB 3, either as image files or inline in content documents. Unlike JPEG or PNG, it stays sharp at any size.