The process of saving an iMovie project in the widely compatible MP4 format is a fundamental step in video creation. MP4, short for MPEG-4 Part 14, is a digital multimedia container format most commonly used to store video and audio, but can also be used to store subtitles and still images. This format’s popularity stems from its balance between file size and video quality, making it suitable for sharing across various platforms and devices.
Generating files in a broadly supported format offers several advantages. It ensures wider accessibility, facilitating seamless playback on different operating systems, media players, and mobile devices. Furthermore, this format is often preferred for online distribution, as it is compatible with major video-sharing platforms and websites. Historically, the need for a universally accepted video format grew with the proliferation of digital devices and the increase in online video consumption.