MOV File Extension

What is MOV file?

MOV is a popular video file format developed by the Apple company in 1998, used be default by the QuickTime player. A MOV file contains a single or multiple paths, and each of those paths is assigned with a specific type of data: video, audio or text (written). These paths may be also utilised to indicate the data within a different file. Each path usually uses one or more codecs, therefore an application utilising MOV files must support all the used codecs.

Advantages of MOV format

MOV is a popular format which is compatible with MAC, Windows iOS and Android systems. The MOV format is also greatly adjusted for video edition, because of the fact that specific fragments of data can be modified separately. Due to multiple data storing paths, it is possible to edit sound and image separately

Similarities between MOV and MP4

The MP4 format was developed on the basis of MOV – only minor changes were implemented. Both formats use in compression the MPEG-4 codecs and it is a lossy compression method therefore one should take into account loss of quality, however, this results in small size of files. Due to many similarities, MOV and MP4 files can be easily converted both ways, especially considering Apple systems; in other systems, certain complications may occur. Although the MOV format is relatively popular, the MP4 is currently more frequently encountered.

Programs which support MOV file extension

Below you will find an index of software programs that can be used to open MOV files divided into 4 categories according to system platform supported. MOV files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 07/15/2023

How to open file with MOV extension?

There can be multiple causes why you have problems with opening MOV files on given system. Fortunately, most common problems with MOV files can be solved without in-depth IT knowledge, and most importantly, in a matter of minutes. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Download and install QuickTime Player

The most common reason for such problems is the lack of proper applications that supports MOV files installed on the system. This one is an easy one. Select QuickTime Player or one of the recommended programs (for example, Windows Media Player, PowerDVD, Creator NXT Pro) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. Above you will find a complete listing of programs that support MOV files, classified according to system platforms for which they are available. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit QuickTime Player website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update QuickTime Player to the latest version

If you already have QuickTime Player installed on your systems and MOV files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. The reason that QuickTime Player cannot handle files with MOV may be that the software is outdated. All of the file formats that were handled just fine by the previous versions of given program should be also possible to open using QuickTime Player.

Step 3. Assign QuickTime Player to MOV files

After installing QuickTime Player (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open MOV files. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Clicking the MOV with right mouse button will bring a menu from which you should select the Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where QuickTime Player is installed, check the Always use this app to open MOV files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with MOV extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select the appropriate software and save your settings by clicking Change all
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with MOV extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Check the MOV for errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper MOV file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The MOV may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MOV file hinders attempts to open it. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the MOV file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

If you obtained the problematic MOV file from a third party, ask them to supply you with another copy. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the MOV file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Check whether your system can handle QuickTime Player

If the systems has insufficient resources to open MOV files, try closing all currently running applications and try again.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Regularly updated system, drivers, and programs keep your computer secure. This may also prevent problems with Apple QuickTime Movie files. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle MOV files.

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