Smart phones are capable of capturing and transmitting many forms of communication, including videos. Phones that operate on the 3G network typically make use the the .3G2 file extension. You can always play these files on the phone that captured them, but when you transfer the videos to a computer you will need a compatible codec program to play them. Many codec programs that play .3G2 are free of charge.
Development of .3G2
- 3rd Generation Partnership Project 2, also known as 3GPP2, is responsible for the development of the .3G2 file. The file format is based on the MPEG-4 file standard, intended to provide a consistent delivery of multimedia files over 3G mobile networks. The files are designed to hold both audio and video content.
Capturing .3G2 Files
- The .3G2 file extension is the preferred method used to record short video clips on 3G (3rd Generation) mobile phones. Once recorded, you can play back your .3G2 file on the cell phone to which it was recorded. The files may also be transferred to a PC or Mac, provided your cell phone provides a way to transfer data from your device to a computer.
Playing 3G2 on a PC
- Not every Windows program will play a .3G2 file. Programs available for Windows that do offer to play the files include DivX, RealNetworks RealPlayer, QuickTime player and Power DVD. If you do not have any of these programs on your computer, it may be possible to convert your file into a format that is playable on your PC. Once you find out which format your video player will accept, look for an online program to convert to it from .3G2.
Playing 3G2 on a Mac
- The .3G2 file format can also be played on a Mac, though there are fewer options for programs with which to play the files. If you have MPlayer for Mac, QuickTime or RealNetworks RealPlayer, however, you will be able to view your .3G2 video files. RealPlayer will also permit Linux users to view the files, as will VideoLAN VLC Media Player.
