Video format
What is a MOV file?
MOV is Apple's QuickTime container format — it's what iPhones record video into by default.
MOV was built by Apple as the native container for QuickTime back in the early 1990s, well before MP4 existed — in fact, the ISO base media format that MP4 is built on borrows heavily from QuickTime's original design. Today it's mainly notable as the format iPhones record video into and the format Final Cut Pro and other Apple editing tools favor, including support for high-end codecs like ProRes that MP4 doesn't typically carry.
How to open a MOV file
MOV files open readily in QuickTime Player, Most modern browsers and media players. For real editing rather than just viewing, reach for Final Cut Pro, Adobe Premiere Pro, iMovie.
Strengths & limitations
Good for
- native to Apple's camera and editing apps
- supports high-quality codecs like ProRes
Watch out for
- some non-Apple platforms and older editors handle it inconsistently
Convert MOV files
Orbfile can convert MOV both ways, entirely in your browser — pick a direction below:
Frequently asked questions
What does a MOV file contain?+
MOV is Apple's QuickTime container format — it's what iPhones record video into by default.
Can I convert MOV for free?+
Yes — Orbfile's video converter handles MOV for free, with no file limit, watermark, or account, and it runs entirely in your browser.
Is converting a MOV file safe and private?+
Yes. Orbfile processes MOV files locally on your device using WebAssembly — nothing is uploaded to a server, so there's nothing to leak or store.
Who created the MOV format?+
MOV was developed by Apple, first released around 1991.
Browse the full file format guide.