Video file conversion: 3GPP format and its specifics

14th May 2024

3GPP  video files are commonly saved on mobile devices and are tuned to be compatible with them. Converting them into other formats may be useful for viewing and saving or viewing them on other devices. Let’s learn more about them in detail.

 

Overview of the 3GPP format

Before we can learn how you can convert a 3GPP file into another format, it is essential to learn all there is to know about it. In this section we will try to explore what these files are exactly, and why the format has been created. 

What is 3GPP format?

3GPP, short for Third Generation Partnership Project, refers to the format in which video files are recorded, streamed, and saved on mobile devices. These can be transferred over the internet or even through mobile phones which support 2G and 3G technology. For the most part, this is an older technology which might not be suitable for modern devices. 

What is 3GPP format used for?

Although we are only covering 3GPP video files in this article, this format is used for supporting multimedia content including audio files as well. The most common uses of the 3GPP format include the following: 

 

  • 3GPP files are used for storing video and audio content on mobile devices. 
  • They are used for supporting video playback across all devices which are compatible with this format. 
  • 3GPP format is also used in several mobiles for recording of videos. 
  • This format is easily compatible with older mobile phone models, specifically those that support 2G and 3G tech. 
  • Video streaming becomes easy with this format in mobile phones.
  • Videos recorded on older mobiles are usually automatically recorded in this format. 

Specifics of the 3GPP file format

  • You can identify a #GPP file by its extension which is .3gp. 
  • 3GPP files save video and audio files in specific codecs. The video files are stored in codecs including H.263 and H.264. 
  • Some 3GPP files also support subtitles in the video files which is useful for video playbacks. 
  • Because it is compatible with older technology, it might not support new-age technology and videos created on it. 

How to convert 3GPP files?

At times, 3GPP files may not be suitable or compatible with your device or system, necessitating their conversion into other formats which can be useful for you. For the purpose of converting 3GPP files into other formats, you need to follow the steps mentioned below. 

Choose a suitable online converter

The first and foremost thing that you need to do is find a suitable online 3GPP converter such as MConverter. These platforms allow you to convert a wide variety of files into different formats within a few seconds. 

  • Go onto your search browser and look for MConverter
  • Open the first link that pops up.

Upload the 3GPP file

When you reach the MConverter home page, locate the panel that says ‘video’ under the ‘convert from’ section. 

In this section, choose the file format which says ‘3gpp’. Once you have chosen this option, you can go ahead and upload the file from your system, or paste the file url into the designated space. 

Choose the format you want to convert to

After uploading the file, simply choose the format and content type you wish to convert it into. The available options include audio, video and image. Choose the panel and format option within that segment. 

Click on convert and wait for a few seconds. Then download the file and store to your preferred location on your system. 

 

Conclusion 

3GPP files are unique in their own manner, but they may not be useful for everyone at all times. They might not be compatible with some systems which require users to convert them in other formats. This is where MConverter becomes a highly efficient and reliable tool that you can leverage.