What is a MOV file?
MOV is Apple's QuickTime container, used for iPhone video and professional editing. Recent iPhones record HEVC video inside MOV files, which many Windows PCs, Android phones and websites can't play without converting.
| Full name | Apple QuickTime Movie |
|---|---|
| File extensions | .mov, .qt |
| MIME type | video/quicktime |
| Introduced | 1991 |
| Compression | Lossy (often H.264 or HEVC) |
| Typical file size | Similar to MP4; ProRes MOVs are very large |
| Best for | iPhone video and editing on Mac |
| Compatibility | Apple devices and most editors; Windows and the web may struggle with HEVC MOVs |
How to open a MOV file
Windows
Media Player plays H.264 MOVs; HEVC MOVs need the HEVC extension, or use VLC.
Mac
Plays natively in QuickTime and Photos.
iPhone and iPad
Native format: plays in Photos.
Android
Many players open it; HEVC MOVs may fail, so convert to MP4.
If none of these work, convert the file to a more widely supported format with one of the tools below.
Convert MOV files
Other tools for MOV files
MOV metadata and privacy
iPhone MOV videos include the recording date, device model and usually the GPS location.
Frequently asked questions
What is a MOV file?
MOV is Apple's QuickTime container, used for iPhone video and professional editing. Recent iPhones record HEVC video inside MOV files, which many Windows PCs, Android phones and websites can't play without converting.
How do I open a MOV file on Windows?
Media Player plays H.264 MOVs; HEVC MOVs need the HEVC extension, or use VLC.
How do I open a MOV file on a Mac?
Plays natively in QuickTime and Photos.
Is MOV lossy or lossless?
MOV uses lossy compression, so some detail is discarded each time the file is saved.
How do I convert MOV to another format?
Use one of the free converters on this page, for example MOV to MP3. Files are converted in your browser without being uploaded.