QuickTime MOV — ShotAI Compatibility
Apple's container format supporting virtually any codec, the standard interchange format in Mac-based post-production.
What is QuickTime MOV?
QuickTime MOV is a multimedia container format developed by Apple Inc., first released in 1991 as part of the QuickTime multimedia framework. The format uses a track-based structure that can contain multiple video, audio, text, and metadata tracks simultaneously. MOV files are the standard exchange format in Apple-based professional video workflows and can wrap virtually any codec including ProRes, H.264, HEVC, and many others. The container supports timecode tracks, chapter markers, and rich metadata, making it a versatile choice for professional post-production.
How does ShotAI handle QuickTime MOV files?
ShotAI handles QuickTime MOV files regardless of the codec wrapped inside — ProRes, H.264, HEVC, or any other supported codec. The import process reads MOV-specific metadata including timecode tracks, chapter markers, camera metadata (BRAW in MOV wrapper), and custom metadata atoms. ShotAI indexes each track independently, combining visual analysis of the video track with speech-to-text from audio tracks. The result is a fully searchable representation of your MOV library that understands both what is seen and what is said in each clip.
When should you use QuickTime MOV?
QuickTime MOV is the standard interchange format for Mac-based post-production and the native container for Apple ProRes. Use MOV when working in Apple-centric facilities, exchanging files between Final Cut Pro and other applications, or when you need a container that supports multiple tracks (video, audio, timecode, subtitles) in a single file. MOV is also the preferred container for screen recordings on macOS and for delivering masters that may contain ProRes, H.264, or HEVC streams.
Quick Facts
- Format
- QuickTime MOV
- Container
- .mov
- Category
- Production
Written by the ShotAI team. Last updated May 2026.