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9 Patch Editor screenshot

What is 9 Patch Editor?

9 Patch Editor is a browser-based tool for creating 9 patch images, a file format used in Android development to define how images scale and stretch across different screen sizes. The tool provides a visual editor where you upload an image, define stretch regions and content areas by drawing lines, and then export the finished 9 patch PNG file. It's designed for Android developers and UI designers who need to create flexible, scalable graphics that adapt to various device dimensions without distortion. The online format means you don't need to install software or set up a development environment.

Key Features

Visual grid editor

Draw stretch zones and content areas directly on your image with an intuitive click-and-drag interface

Real-time preview

See how your 9 patch image will scale and stretch at different sizes immediately

PNG import and export

Upload standard PNG files and download completed 9 patch PNGs ready for Android projects

Browser-based

No installation required; work entirely in your web browser on any device

Guides and measurement tools

View pixel coordinates and grid lines to precisely place stretch regions

Pros & Cons

Advantages

  • Completely free and accessible from any device with a browser
  • Eliminates the need to understand 9 patch syntax or use command-line tools
  • Quick turnaround for creating scalable Android UI graphics
  • Visual feedback prevents common mistakes like incorrectly placed stretch borders

Limitations

  • Limited to Android development; 9 patch images aren't used in other platforms
  • No collaboration features or version history if you need to iterate with a team
  • Dependent on browser compatibility and internet connection

Use Cases

Creating scalable button backgrounds for Android apps that look crisp on phones, tablets, and various screen densities

Designing flexible dialog box borders and frames that stretch without warping

Building chat bubble graphics that resize to fit different message lengths

Preparing notification panel images for Android apps

Designing input field backgrounds and form elements that adapt to different content widths