How to Convert 3GP Video Files
If you have old mobile phone recordings and need to change the video format for compatibility with modern devices, this article is for you.
Typically, 3GP files are videos recorded on a mobile phone’s camera. Needless to say, to make them compatible with other devices or platforms you should know how to convert 3GP video files to other formats.
Icecream Video Converter is a reliable and user-friendly solution. Whether you're a tech novice or a seasoned user, this tutorial will help you make the most of your 3GP videos with minimal effort.
What is 3GP video format?
3GP (3rd Generation Partnership Project) is a multimedia container format primarily used for mobile phones.
3GP files are optimized for mobile devices, offering efficient storage and bandwidth usage. They usually use the H.263 or H.264 video codecs balancing quality with file size.
Many modern devices and media players do not natively support 3GP videos. This can make it difficult to play the files without converting them to a more commonly used format like MP4.
How to convert 3GP video files?
When you find an old 3GP video and need to open it on your computer or upload it to your social media profile, the best solution will be to convert it to a more up-to-date format. See the instructions on how to use a free 3GP video converter below.
1. Download and install the program
To start using the program for converting files, you need to download video converter for PC for free. Save the installation file on your PC, run it, and complete the process according to the Wizard's instructions.
When the app is installed, simply launch it as you usually do with other software you use.
2. Add 3GP files
Press the "Add file" button in the upper left corner to import your 3GP videos. Another way is to drag and drop the files directly into the programs' working window.
3. Configure output file settings
Open the "Convert to" dropdown menu and select your desired output format. File converter supports MP4, MOV, AVI, WebM, MKV, MPEG, MP3, WAV, M4A, and WMA. You can find more information about each format below.
4. Use additional tools
If needed, you can trim the video, import SRT subtitles, or add a text/image watermark before beginning the conversion process.
5. Start the conversion
The conversion can be launched right after configuring the settings for your 3GP file. All you need to do is press the pink "Convert" button on the right to the video file.
Those who want to process multiple files at the same time can opt for bulk conversion. It’s quite easy – add all the video files, select the format, and use the "Convert" button at the bottom right.
When the program completes the conversion, the green "✔ Converted!" message will appear below the videos. Press the folder icon to view the resulting file or find all the clips in the "History" tab.
Supported formats for conversion
Video formats
| Format | Description | Usage | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP4 | A highly versatile and widely used multimedia container format. | Supports video, audio, subtitles, and images. Ideal for streaming and sharing video content online. | Compatible with almost all devices and players. |
| MOV | A container format developed by Apple. | Commonly used in professional video editing and on Apple devices. | Best supported on Apple platforms but also playable on other systems with compatible software. |
| AVI | A multimedia container format by Microsoft. | Stores video and audio data and is used for various purposes including digital video. | Widely supported, especially on Windows platforms, but larger file sizes compared to more modern formats. |
| WebM | An open, royalty-free multimedia container format designed for the web. | Optimized for online streaming and widely used on websites like YouTube. | Supported by most modern web browsers and media players. |
| MKV | A flexible, open standard multimedia container format. | Supports multiple video, audio, subtitle tracks, and metadata. Popular for high-definition video. | Requires specific software but is increasingly supported by media players. |
| MPEG | A standard for encoding video and audio. | Used for video files on the internet, DVDs, and digital TV broadcasts. | Widely supported across various devices and platforms. |
Audio formats
| Format | Description | Usage | Compatibility |
|---|---|---|---|
| MP3 | A popular digital audio format for compressing sound files. | Commonly used for music and audio streaming. | Supported by virtually all digital audio players and devices. |
| WAV | An audio file format standard for storing waveform data. | Used for high-quality audio files, often in professional audio recording and editing. | Supported by most audio players and editing software, but files are typically large. |
| M4A | A file format for storing audio, often using AAC compression. | Used for music sold on iTunes and other online stores. | Supported by many modern media players and devices, especially Apple products. |
| WMA | An audio format developed by Microsoft. | Used for streaming and downloading audio, often with digital rights management (DRM). | Best supported on Windows platforms and compatible media players. |
How to convert 3GP video files - final words
In conclusion, converting 3GP files is uncomplicated with a program like Icecream Video Converter. The software's additional features like trimming, importing subtitles and watermarks, make it your go-to companion for all your video conversion needs.
With this guide, you are now equipped to convert your 3GP files into any format you desire.
Editor-in-Chief at Icecream Apps
