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MOV FORMAT

MOV Converters

Extract audio from iPhone and QuickTime MOV videos.

About MOV

MOV is Apple's QuickTime video container format, introduced in 1991 and continuously updated since. Technically very similar to MP4 (both derive from the ISO base media file format), MOV files typically contain H.264 or HEVC video with AAC audio at 128-160 kbps for consumer recordings. Professional cameras often record MOV with ProRes video and PCM audio for higher quality workflows. MOV supports the same codec flexibility as MP4, including multiple audio tracks, timecode, and extensive metadata.

Learn more: QuickTime on Wikipedia

MOV is the native recording format for every iPhone since 2007, making it one of the most common video formats users encounter. When you record video on iPhone, it saves as MOV—hundreds of millions of these files are created daily. Users frequently need to extract audio from iPhone videos for podcasts, voice memos, or sharing audio separately. While Macs handle MOV natively, Windows users may encounter compatibility issues that make audio extraction the practical solution.

Quick Facts

Extension
.mov, .qt
Developed By
Apple Inc.
First Released
1991
Video Codecs
ProRes, H.264, HEVC
Audio Codecs
AAC, PCM
Max Resolution
8K (7680×4320)
Native Platform
macOS, iOS
Professional Use
ProRes editing

Extract Audio from MOV (2 tools)

MOV to MP3

Extract audio from MOV videos and save as MP3

MOV to WAV

Extract audio from MOV videos and save as lossless WAV

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does my iPhone save videos as MOV?

MOV is Apple's native video format since 1991. Every iPhone since 2007 saves videos as MOV files—it's deeply integrated into iOS and macOS.

While MOV and MP4 are technically very similar (both based on the same ISO specification), Apple prefers MOV for its tighter integration with QuickTime, Final Cut Pro, and iMovie.

What audio quality do iPhone MOV videos have?

iPhone MOV files contain AAC audio at 44.1kHz stereo, typically around 128-160 kbps. This is broadcast-quality audio—clear voice recordings, decent music playback.

Professional cameras recording MOV may include PCM (uncompressed) audio at higher sample rates. Our converters handle both cases automatically.

Can Windows play MOV files?

Windows Media Player often struggles with MOV files, especially those using HEVC (H.265) codec from newer iPhones. You may see video but hear no audio, or get codec errors entirely.

Solutions: Install VLC Player (free), install HEVC Video Extensions from Microsoft Store ($0.99), or extract just the audio using our converter.

What's the difference between MOV and MP4?

Technically, MOV and MP4 are nearly identical—both are based on the ISO base media file format. The main differences:

  • MOV supports Apple ProRes (professional editing codec)
  • MP4 has broader compatibility across devices
  • MOV is Apple's native format; MP4 is the industry standard

For audio extraction, they behave identically—both typically contain AAC audio.

Answers at a Glance

Quick answers to common questions.