AVI is an audio and video file format that is known for offering high-quality videos. Although it is commonly referred to as a file format, it actually is a container format that holds several codecs such as DivX and XviD.
Compatibility of AVI files with Mac’s QuickTime
Apple has added support for AVI files in newer versions of QuickTime player like QuickTime 7 and QuickTime X, but AVI files still face certain compatibility issues with QuickTime. The reason is that QuickTime is designed to support only AVI files with JPEG video and PCM audio. So, if your AVI file uses a different compression or a codec, QuickTime Player cannot play the file.
In order to play AVI files in your Mac’s QuickTime, we provide some workarounds in this article.
Workaround 1: Install Perian
Perian is a free and open-source package that allows QuickTime to play file formats not otherwise supported by QuickTime. Install Perian on your Mac and try to play your AVI file. This should help you play the file without issues in most cases. If it doesn’t, proceed with the next step.
Workaround 2: Convert AVI to a format supported by QuickTime
If you don’t want to install codec packages like Perian on your system, the easiest option is for you to convert the file to a QuickTime compatible format such as MOV.
There are tons of video converters out there, but it is best to use a reliable one to avoid damaging your file. Once you convert AVI file to MOV format, playing it on QuickTime should be a breeze.
Workaround 3: Use the VLC media player
If you don’t want to convert your AVI file to other formats or if you don’t want to install codec packages on your system, you can use a universal media player such as VLC.
The VLC media player is known for playing a variety of media formats such as MP4, AVI, MKV, 3GP etc. Not just that, it is also a multi-platform app that can be used with Windows, Mac, Ubuntu etc.
Just download VLC on your system if you don’t have it already and play your file. This is the easiest option if you don’t want to go through the hassle of converting your file to other formats.
Repair AVI files
If you’ve tried all these methods and none of them work, there is a possibility that your file is corrupt or damaged. In such cases, you can repair your AVI file using video repair tools.
Corruption may show in different forms such as audio video sync issues, pixelated or blurry videos, only audio or only video plays etc. Or in some cases, your file may not play due to corruption.
Remo Repair AVI is a great tool that can be used to repair corrupt or damaged AVI files. Just download the software and select the corrupted file to repair. Then click on Repair and your file will be repaired in minutes. Use the trial version of Remo Repair AVI and repair your file for free!