3GP

3GP is a multimedia container format defined by the 3G Partnership Project (3GPP) for storing audio and video streams intended for playback on mobile devices, particularly those connected to 3G networks. It is derived from the MP4 family (MPEG-4 Part 14) and is designed to be a lighter-weight option optimized for the bandwidth and storage constraints of mobile systems.

Technically, 3GP is based on the ISO Base Media File Format and commonly uses the .3gp file extension. A typical 3GP file contains video encoded with codecs such as H.263 or MPEG-4 Part 2 and audio encoded with AMR-NB, AMR-WB, or AAC. In later 3GPP releases, support for more efficient codecs like H.264/AVC and advanced AAC profiles was added, enabling higher-quality video at lower bitrates while maintaining broad compatibility with mobile devices.

Originating in the early 2000s, 3GP was developed to facilitate efficient streaming and storage of mobile media on 3G networks. It became widely adopted for camera recordings and mobile video messaging on 3G handsets. While many players can handle 3GP files, some devices and software may prefer the MP4 container, and 3GP content is sometimes remuxed or converted to MP4 for broader compatibility or higher-quality playback on desktop systems.

Related formats include 3GPP2’s 3G2 container, which serves a similar purpose for CDMA-based networks. Both formats share a common heritage but are intended for different mobile ecosystems.