import

(1) To convert a file into the format required by the application being used. Applications are often capable of importing a variety of popular formats, converting them into the native format of the application. For example, CAD and drawing programs work on graphics objects in their native, proprietary format. In order to modify an illustration created in another application, it must be imported into the current application. After making changes, the drawing can then be saved in (exported to) its original format.

Ripping Is Importing
When a music CD is imported into jukebox software such as iTunes and converted to MP3, AAC or some other compressed audio format, it is also called "ripping." Contrast with export. See import filter and ripping.

(2) To scan an image into an application. For example, the import function in Photoshop is used to activate the scanner. In this context, import means to convert the paper image to a digital image.

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(data)

import - To read data that is not in the native format of the application. For example, a web browser will have its own way of storing bookmarks but it will usually provide a function to import bookmarks from Internet Explorer. The alternative is to provide an independent external conversion utility but this is usually less convenient for the user.