.mp4

What does .mp4 mean?

“.mp4” is a File Extension that stands for “MPEG-4 Part 14”. It is a digital multimedia container format that can store audio, video, and other data in a compressed format. MPEG-4 Part 14 was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) as part of the MPEG-4 standard. It is designed to be used for streaming video over the internet and for storing video on Physical media such as CDs and DVDs.

The .mp4 file format uses a variety of codecs to compress audio and video data. The most common codecs used in .mp4 files are H.264/AVC for video and AAC for audio. H.264/AVC is a highly efficient video codec that can produce high-quality video at relatively low bit rates. AAC is a high-quality audio codec that is widely used in digital audio applications.

.mp4 files are widely supported by a variety of software players and hardware devices. This makes them a popular choice for streaming video over the internet and for storing video on physical media.

Applications

.mp4 is a versatile file format that can be used for a variety of applications, including:

• Streaming video: .mp4 is one of the most popular file formats for streaming video over the internet. It is supported by a wide range of devices, including computers, smartphones, and tablets.
• Storing video: .mp4 is also a popular choice for storing video on physical media such as CDs and DVDs. It is a relatively compact file format that can store high-quality video.
• Video Editing: .mp4 is a common file format for video editing software. It is easy to edit and manipulate, making it a good choice for creating and editing videos.
• Sharing video: .mp4 is a convenient file format for sharing video with others. It is supported by a wide range of devices and software players, making it easy to share videos with friends and family.

History

The .mp4 file format was first developed in 2001 as part of the MPEG-4 standard. It was designed to be a more efficient and versatile file format than previous MPEG formats. The .mp4 file format has since become one of the most popular file formats for streaming video and storing video on physical media.

The .mp4 file format has undergone several revisions since its initial release. The most recent revision, MPEG-4 Part 14, was released in 2003. This revision added support for new codecs and features, including H.264/AVC video and AAC audio.

The .mp4 file format is still under development and is likely to continue to evolve in the years to come. As new codecs and features are developed, they will likely be added to the .mp4 file format. This will keep .mp4 relevant as a file format for streaming video and storing video on physical media.