Forum Discussion
Helper VPBIP and PBIR files
Hey ahmedshalabyy12 ,
You can open these files using Notepad. You will see that the PBIR file will have a reference to the semantic model. PBIR is located in the Reports folder of the PBIP project folder structure, so opening it will open the Report and the semantic model reference in the PBIR file will link it to the semantic folder. PBIP file simply has a reference to the Reports folder, where in the definition PBIR file (with reference to semantic model) lies. So, simply put at this point, the PBIP files just serves as a convenient shortcut at the root level of the Power BI Project folder structure (so that people don't have to go looking inside the Reports folder to find the PBIR file). Maybe things will change if and when the PBIP will natively support multi reports-single semantic model approach but that is for the future to decide.
Hope that helps!
Super UserHey ahmedshalabyy12 ,
You can open these files using Notepad. You will see that the PBIR file will have a reference to the semantic model. PBIR is located in the Reports folder of the PBIP project folder structure, so opening it will open the Report and the semantic model reference in the PBIR file will link it to the semantic folder. PBIP file simply has a reference to the Reports folder, where in the definition PBIR file (with reference to semantic model) lies. So, simply put at this point, the PBIP files just serves as a convenient shortcut at the root level of the Power BI Project folder structure (so that people don't have to go looking inside the Reports folder to find the PBIR file). Maybe things will change if and when the PBIP will natively support multi reports-single semantic model approach but that is for the future to decide.
Hope that helps!
Super UserThe difference between PBIX, PBIP, and PBIR files in Power BI is mainly about how the report is stored and managed, especially for development and version control:
PBIX: This is the traditional Power BI Desktop file format. It’s a binary file that contains everything—the data model, queries, and report—in one file. You open this file directly in Power BI Desktop. It’s best for individual or small-team usage without detailed source control.
PBIP (Power BI Project): This is a new project-based format saving Power BI reports as a folder structure with multiple files (including datasets and dataflows). PBIP works well for modular, collaborative development and integrates easily with source control systems like Git. It separates report components for better versioning and code-friendly editing.
PBIR (Power BI Enhanced Report Format): This format is used inside PBIP projects and also supported in PBIX when enabled. PBIR stores report metadata in JSON files, organized by components (pages, visuals, bookmarks, etc.), enabling advanced source control features like granular tracking, code-based edits, and co-development.