ODT is the text document format of the OpenDocument standard (ISO/IEC 26300), developed by OASIS and first standardized in 2005. It is the native format of LibreOffice Writer and Apache OpenOffice Writer.
Like DOCX, an ODT file is a ZIP archive of XML files and embedded media. It is an open, vendor-neutral format, so several governments and public institutions require or prefer it for long-term document access. Microsoft Word, Google Docs and Pages can open and save ODT, with occasional formatting differences.
| Extension | .odt |
|---|---|
| Full name | OpenDocument Text |
| Type | Documents |
| Typical size | 10 KB–5 MB |
How to open a .odt file
| Device | How to open it |
|---|---|
| Windows | LibreOffice Writer opens ODT natively, and Microsoft Word can open and save it. |
| Mac | LibreOffice, Word for Mac and Pages can open ODT. |
| iPhone / iPad | Google Docs or Collabora Office open ODT; Files can preview some documents. |
| Android | Google Docs, Collabora Office and WPS Office open ODT. |
| Linux | LibreOffice Writer is usually preinstalled and opens ODT natively. |
Converting .odt files
ODT converts to DOCX or PDF in LibreOffice (File > Save As or Export as PDF), Word or Google Docs. LibreOffice's command line (soffice --convert-to) can batch-convert many files.
How to send a .odt file
- Open sendryo.com on the device that has the file and add it.
- Tap Get share code.
- On the other device, enter the code — the .odt file arrives directly, unchanged, at full quality.
Tips for sharing .odt files
- If the recipient uses Word, send DOCX or PDF to avoid formatting differences, unless they specifically asked for ODT.
- Embed fonts via File > Properties > Font in LibreOffice if you use unusual fonts.
- ODT supports password encryption in LibreOffice (Save with password); use it for sensitive documents.
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an ODT file?
Download the free LibreOffice suite for Windows, Mac or Linux, which opens ODT natively. Microsoft Word and Google Docs can also open ODT files. On phones, Google Docs and Collabora Office handle them.
Can Microsoft Word open ODT files?
Yes. Word 2010 and later can open and save ODT files. Most formatting carries over, but complex layouts, styles or fields may look slightly different. For reliable editing, use LibreOffice Writer, the native ODT editor.
What is the difference between ODT and DOCX?
Both are ZIP-based XML document formats. ODT is part of the OpenDocument standard and native to LibreOffice; DOCX is Microsoft's Office Open XML format. DOCX is more common in business, while ODT is common in open-source and some government environments.
How do I send a large .odt file?
Open Sendryo on both devices, add the .odt file and share the 6-digit code. It goes directly to the other device at original quality, with no size limit set by us and no upload to a server.