MOV

MOV is a multimedia container format developed by Apple as part of the QuickTime framework. A MOV file can contain multiple streams of video, audio, text (subtitles), and effects in a single file, organized into tracks. The container is known for its efficiency in storing high-quality video and is widely used in professional video workflows.

MOV originated with the QuickTime File Format. It is closely related to the MP4 container, which is based on the ISO Base Media File Format; both share a common approach to storing media tracks, but MOV remains associated with the QuickTime ecosystem. MOV files support a variety of codecs, including lossless and lossy video such as ProRes, H.264, and earlier Sorenson Video, and audio codecs such as AAC, AIFF, and PCM. The choice of codecs can affect playback compatibility and file size.

In practice, MOV is common on macOS and in professional video editing software such as Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, and DaVinci Resolve. It is also playable on many Windows and Linux systems using media players like VLC, QuickTime for Windows (historical) or native codecs. However, MP4 is often preferred for broad cross-platform distribution because of broader compatibility.

MOV is a versatile container particularly prevalent in Apple environments and edited media; its flexibility comes with codec-dependent compatibility and file size considerations.