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What does MP4 stand for?

Published in File Formats 2 mins read

MP4 stands for MPEG-4 Part 14.

Understanding MPEG-4 Part 14 (MP4)

MP4 is a digital multimedia container format most commonly used to store video and audio, but it can also store other data such as subtitles and still images.

  • MPEG: It's part of the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) standards for video and audio compression.
  • Part 14: Refers to a specific part of the MPEG-4 standard that defines the structure of the file format.

Key Features of MP4 Files

  • Compression: MP4 files utilize compression techniques, making them relatively small in size compared to uncompressed video formats.
  • Versatility: They can contain various types of data, not just video and audio.
  • Popularity: Due to their compatibility and efficient compression, MP4s are widely used for streaming and downloading videos online.
  • Compatibility: MP4 files are supported by a wide range of devices and media players.

Why is MP4 so Common?

The MP4 format's ability to efficiently store high-quality video and audio in a relatively small file size has made it a prevalent choice for online video distribution, personal video storage, and playback on various devices.

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