MOV File Format | .mov Extension

What is a MOV file?

The full form of MOV is QuickTime Multimedia and it is a video file format developed by Apple. It is widely used in audio, video, and text data. It is widely used by Apple users to store video files on Macs, iPhones and all other Apple devices. It has become the industry standard format for the Apple devices. It works very well in the Apple ecosystem. In this post, we will cover topics like what is .mov, key points, advantages and disadvantages. The MOV file format is a multimedia container format developed by Apple. It uses MPEG-4 codec for compression and the object called atoms to maintain the tracks, which are stored in a hierarchical data structure.

Characteristics of the .mov file

• MOV file contains multiple tracks of the different types of media.
• MOV uses the H.264, MPEG-4, and ProRes video codecs to compress the videos.
• Audio codecs of the MOV file include AAC, MP3, and PCM
• MOV file format is suitable for editing purposes and because it preserves the high quality of the media
• It also includes the metadata that provides information about the content.

How to Convert a MOV File?

Not every media player, device, online file storage service, or website supports the MOV format. In some cases, you can convert the MOV file to a new format that will work for your specific needs.

The most effective technique to convert the MOV file is to utilize file converter such as Any Video Converter. The majority of them allow you to convert MOV to MP4, WMV, AVI, and other digital media file types, or even directly to DVD. Some users can also extract the audio from the MOV file and export it as an MP3.

Even the VLC media player can open MOV files, can convert them to other formats such as MP4. This is achieved using VLC’s Media > Convert / Save menu item. Browse for the MOV file and use that option to select an output format.

Advantages of MOV File

• It has very high-quality audio and video suitable for editing.
• Supports the different types of the codecs for the compression.
• This file format is suitable when you are working on professional grades and want accurate colors and audio.

Disadvantages of MOV File

• The high quality of video and audio results in large file sizes.
• This format cannot be used for general purpose as the files are very large.
• Less compatibility with different platforms and devices.

Compatible Software

• It is compatible with the Apple media player ( QuickTime player).
• Most editing software such as Adobe Premier Pro, Final Cut Pro and many more compatible with it.
• Window media player also can be used with .mov files.

Comparison with different Video Format

File Format	Full Name	Developed By	Intial release	License	VBR audio	Hardware player	3D support
.mov	Quicktime Multimedia	Apple	1991-2012	Proprietary	Yes	Yes	Not standard
.wmv	Windows Media Video	Microsoft	1996-2009	codecs	Yes	Yes	Not standard
.mpg	MPEG-1	MPEG	1993-08	Patent-free	Yes	Yes	No
.avi	Audio Video Interleave	Microsoft	1992-2011	Proprietary	Yes	Yes	No
.3pg	3GP	3GPP	2003-2004	Pantent	Yes	Yes	No
.mp4	MPEG-4	MPEG	2001-2010	Patent	Yes	Yes	Only for video format

Conclusion

In conclusion, the MOV file format stands out as a versatile and widely supported container for multimedia content. Its compatibility with Apple and QuickTime has contributed to its popularity, and its compatibility with both Mac and Windows platforms makes it a convenient choice for users across different ecosystems. The MOV format’s support for various codecs, high-quality video, and rich multimedia features has made its place in the world of digital media.

FAQs

Q1. Which is better MOV or MP4?

Ans: MOV is better in comparison of MP4 when it com to the quality of the video.

Q2. Can VLC play MOV files?

Ans: Yes, You can use VLC to play the MOV file.

Q3. Can Android play MOV files?

Ans: Most of the Android player does not support the MOV format.

Q4. Can MOV files be played in browser?

Ans: MOV files can’t be played using any browser.