The MOV file extension normally represents a QuickTime multimedia file. QuickTime is a movie/video/multimedia format developed by Apple and is often used in websites, mostly for streaming audio or video.

Apple distributes the QuickTime Player, allowing Mac and Windows users to view QuickTime multimedia either inside or outside of their web browser. Though the QuickTime player is free, Apple does sell a professional version supporting full-screen video and other features.

Windows users: NOTE that unless you have configured your computer with the file extension viewing tweak, it is possible that a filename that looks like it ends with ".mov", especially one attached to an e-mail message, actually has a hidden OTHER extension, meaning that if you double-click the file, it may actually run a computer virus!

Print This Tip

Get E-Mail When New Tips are Online

Return to the File Extensions page.