File Extension .Mp4

The MP4 file extension is primarily associated with and used as an MPEG-4 (Moving Picture Experts Group) multimedia file format. The MP4 file format is an open container format that can be used to store digital video and audio as well as subtitle streams. One can usually see MP4 files work over the internet as these files are more commonly used to stream video online. Most users would prefer to use this format online because of its capacity to utilize different compression algorithms for both video and audio streams. This capacity allows MP4 files a much higher quality of audio and video streams without necessarily increasing the file size extensively.

Aside from media streaming over the internet, MP4 files are also used in telephony and media production for television broadcast. The MP4 file extension derived from the MPEG-2 standard and was expected to be more scalable than the previous version so as to make suitable for any program – from low-bandwidth devices like mobile phones to full-high definition media for personal computers and other devices.

MP4 files is not solely associated with MPEG-4 though as many other platforms and devices opted to use MP4. Apple for example, uses the MP4 file extension to distribute audio files that are DRM-copyright protected. MP4 is considered an open format and so software developers can freely develop applications that support this file extension. This is the reason why MP4 is used expansively in different media players and A/V applications like Winamp, Real Player and Apple’s QuickTime. Even the more popular Windows Media Player and Media Player Classic can open MP4 files, except that the appropriate codec pack for the file extension must be installed first.

Below are other programs that can be used to open an MP4 file extension: