The MOV file format is a multimedia container file developed by Apple Computer Incorporated. It is commonly used for storing movies and other video files. MOV files can contain video, audio, text tracks (subtitles), and other data. The format is based on the ISO Base Media File Format (MPEG-4 Part 12), sharing a common structure with other formats like MP4. MOV files are often associated with Apple's QuickTime Player, but they are widely supported by various media players and editing software across different platforms. The format supports a variety of codecs for both video and audio, allowing for different levels of compression and quality. MOV files are frequently used for video editing, distribution, and playback. They are also commonly used for storing video content on websites and streaming platforms. The format's flexibility and widespread support have made it a popular choice for storing and sharing video content.