How can you convert a Smart Object into a regular object in Illustrator?

To convert a Smart Object into a regular object in Adobe Illustrator, the process involves rasterizing it, which effectively transforms the Smart Object into a standard raster-based image. By right-clicking on the Smart Object and selecting Rasterize, you prompt Illustrator to convert this linked or embedded object into pixels, removing its vector characteristics while maintaining its overall appearance.

Rasterizing is essential when you want to edit an object in a pixel-based manner or reduce complexity in your artwork, allowing for manipulation without the constraints posed by the original vector data.

Other methods mentioned, such as pressing a specific keyboard shortcut or utilizing the Object > Expand feature, relate to different functions within Illustrator. Expanding an object typically pertains to vector objects to convert strokes, effects, or symbols into individual vector shapes, while layer manipulation functions like Flatten Image are more applicable within Photoshop and not relevant to Illustrator's handling of Smart Objects.