How to Convert Quicktime MOV Files to H.264

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Macs and PCs use the QuickTime movie format, but it is not compatible with iPods, iPads and other mobile devices that use the H.264 video format. Convert a QuickTime movie file (MOV) to the H.264 video format to watch the video on these mobile devices. You can convert a QuickTime file to the H.264 format using the freely distributed QuickTime 7 Player that works identically on both Mac and PC. Compatibility is assured since Apple created not only the QuickTime MOV video format but the H.264 video format as well.

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Step 1

Download the Mac or PC version of the free QuickTime 7 Player from the Apple website onto the computer's desktop (see the link in Resources).

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Step 2

Double-click on the file when it has fully downloaded to the desktop.

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Step 3

Follow the menu commands to install the program onto the computer's hard drive. Restart your PC after the installation is complete.

Step 4

Double-click on the icon of the QuickTime 7 Player to launch it.

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Step 5

Drag the Quicktime MOV video file onto the icon of the QuickTime 7 Player that is on the desktop.

Step 6

Wait as a video window of the QuickTime MOV video file appears on the screen.

Step 7

Click on "File" at the top of the screen. Select "Save As" from the drop-down menu below "File."

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Step 8

Name the H.264 video file that is about to be made in the "Name" column at the top center of the window that appears.

Step 9

Select "Desktop" from the drop down menu below the "Locations" tab at the center of the window.

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Step 10

Select one of the mobile device formats from the drop-down menu that is next to the "Format" tab--select "iPhone" or "iPod" for an Apple mobile device or "HD 480p" for a non-Apple mobile device.

Step 11

Click on the "Hide extension" check box that is at the left lower corner of the window.

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Step 12

Click on the "Save" button at the lower right corner of the window. Quit the QuickTime 7 Player once the H.264 video file has been saved to the desktop. Archive or delete the QuickTime MOV video file.

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