WMV File Format | .wmv Extension

What is a WMV file?

The full form of WMV is Windows Media Video. This file format supports HIGH DEFINITION video and encryption for Digital Rights Management (DRM). The WMV file format is developed by Microsoft for use with Windows Media Player. A WMV file is a video file saved in Microsoft Advanced Systems Format (ASF) and compressed using Windows Media Video (WMV). It may store an animation, video clip, TV episode, or movie and support high-definition video. WMV files can also be encrypted and used with Digital Rights Management (DRM) systems. In 1999, Microsoft introduced the WMV video codec in the Windows Media framework.

How to use WMV files?

WMV files is rather simple, especially if you’re using a Windows PC. Here are some common techniques for playing WMV files:

Using Native Software for Windows

• On a Windows system, double-clicking the WMV file often opens it in Windows Media Player. You can also right-click the file, select Open with, and then Windows Media Player.
• Microsoft Movies & TV: This is another native Windows application that supports WMV files. Simply right-click the WMV file and select Open with > Movies & TV.
• Using Third-Party Software
  • VLC Media Player
  • RealPlayer
  • MPlayer
  • Media Player Classic

Characteristics of the WMV

• It uses video codecs (WMV9) that help compress and decompress the videos.
• The.wmv format is used with Windows Media Player, Microsoft’s multimedia playback application.
• It has been used for various purposes, including online video streaming, video-on-demand services, and digital video content distribution.
• .wmv files can support various video resolutions and bitrates, making them suitable for a range of applications, from low-quality internet streaming to high-definition video playback.

Advantages of the WMV files

• The WMV format can store a large amount of audio and video data in smaller storage spaces, making it ideal for video streaming over the Internet.
• The WMV format is the default format on many Windows devices and is compatible with all Windows devices.
• Many legacy applications, such as older versions of PowerPoint, support the WMV format.
• WMV has a 2x compression ratio compared to MPEG-4.
• It is one of the smallest video formats, making it ideal for sending as an email attachment.

Disadvantages of the WMV files

• WMV is developed by Microsoft. It is not compatible with other media players.
• There is a significant delay in the video transmission.
• It is difficult to find the wmv players for the Linux and Apple operating systems.

Compatible software with the WMV file format

• Window Media Player: This media player is developed by Microsoft you can easily use it.
• VLC Media Player: It is an open-source and cross-platform media player that also supports the WMV file format.

Comparison with different Video File Format

File Format	Full Name	Developed By	Intial release	License	VBR audio	Hardware player	3D support
.wmv	Windows Media Video	Microsoft	1996-2009	codecs	Yes	Yes	Not standard
.mov	Quicktime movie file	Apple	1991-2012	Proprietary	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

The WMV format was developed by Microsoft and is one of the most used formats in the Windows operating system. WMV formats are famous due to their small size and compatibility with third-party video players. It has a 2x compression ratio compared to MPEG-4.

FAQs

Q1. Is WMV a good format?

Ans: WMV is a good format due to its small size.

Q2. How do I convert WMV to MP4?

Ans: You use any online video converter that support the WMV format.

Q3. Does YouTube accept WMV format?

Ans: No, Youtube does not support the WMV format.