What is the best vectorial format I can use to create resolution independent vectorial artwork for iPhone and iPad? PDF?
I have to draw large images 1024x1300 images on a quartz context. Suppose I use PDF. What technique would save more memory and consume less CPU: have the PNG image loaded and draw it on the quartz context or have the PDF loaded on the quartz context?
thanks in advance.
As usual 'it depends'.
Using PNGs of that size will require 5MB of memory to keep them uncompressed in a buffer. This may be fine for your app.
Memory usage of a PDF document is very dependent on the complexity of that document. In my experience vector graphics and text are pretty efficient. Specially when rendered to a Layer.
I think you will simply have to put together a small proof-of-concept app and run it in Instruments to get some real numbers.
The Opacity image editor allows you to draw vector graphics, and output Quartz2D code that you can then use to duplicate the image at any size on any iOS device:
http://likethought.com/opacity/
It would be blazing fast and use almost no memory (well, a large CALayer will consume memory)