All about 3GPP files

3GPP files are video files, very similar to MP4. 3GPP stands for Third Generation Partnership Project and refers to both the standardisation organisation and the format it developed. Introduced in 2003, the format is specifically designed for 3G smartphones, i.e. for slow connections (by today's standards) and limited storage space. The files usually have the file extension .3gpp, but .3gp is also common.

Technically, 3GPP is based on the MPEG-4 Part 12 container. The difference: as already indicated, 3GPP is optimised for particularly small file sizes. MP4 files are regularly several hundred MB to many GB in size. 3GPP files are often much smaller and sometimes even fit into MMS messages. In order to achieve the small file size, the resolution was usually limited to 176×144 pixels (QCIF) or 320×240 pixels. This was more than sufficient for the small mobile phone displays of the time. The frame rate of only 10-15 frames per second also contributes to small file sizes.

Details on the technology of the 3GPP format

3GPP can contain various codecs as a container format. Typically, these are H.263, MPEG-4 or, less commonly, H.264. AMR or AAC is usually used for sound, with AMR being particularly optimised for speech.

Most 3GPP files today are likely to originate from older mobile phones and smartphones. Converting them to MP4 format ensures compatibility. 3GPP files can usually still be played without any problems using VLC or Windows Media Player.

Last updated on 11. March 2026 by Sören with the experience of more than 127,897,783 converted files since 2013.