I cannot open a 3GP file. What should I do? Help!

Virtually anyone has encountered some problems with opening unknown files while working on a computer. It can be very frustrating. Yet such problems, not only with 3GP files, can be addressed in a standard way. Follow the steps below and we can guarantee that your problem with opening 3GP will be resolved!

3GP File Extension

File
  • File type 3GPP Multimedia Format
  • File developer Third Generation Partnership Project
  • File category Video Files
  • File popularity rating
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What is a(n) 3GP file?

The 3GP multimedia file format is a 3GPP (Third Generation Partnership Project) standard video and audio file type. It's a compressed format designed to be used primarily on mobile phones, tablets and other portable devices with limited storage space. 3GP files are based on MP4 technology, but they have been optimized for use on mobile phones and tablets.

3GP files can contain not only audio but also video, subtitles, images and more. This makes them an excellent choice for both streaming media or downloading and storing content on any device with limited space. 3GP files have become very popular in Europe, Asia and Africa as a result of their easy compatibility with modern mobile devices.

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How to open 3GP file?

If given user account does not have necessary permissions to open files with 3GP extension, it is highly probable that no program that supports given files is installed on the users’ system. Below is a list of actions user should pursue in order to resolve most common problems.

Step 1. Download and install application that supports 3GP files

After the application has been installed, the system should automatically open 3GP files with given application. Below is the list of relevant programs along with operating systems they are available for:

Programs that support 3GP files

Step 2. Verify whether 3GP files are associated with appropriate software

It is possible that an application that supports 3GP files is not associated with such files. In such case, the program should by manually associated with 3GP files (right-click on the file icon → PropertiesGeneral Tab → In submenu "Open with" and click on "Change" button. System will display a list of suggested programs that support 3GP files. Choose the application by checking the box "Always use the selected application to open this kind of files". System will store this information in its registry and use it to open 3GP files with the selected program.

Changing 3GP file association in registry

File association for 3GP files can be edited manually by editing appropriate entry in Windows System Registry. However, it is discouraged as it may introduce errors to registry if not done properly and may even damage the system.

Step 3. Check 3GP file for other errors

  • 3GP file was not copied properly from storage medium.
  • Antivirus application prevents opening 3GP files. In that case it is recommended to exercise extreme caution and recover or delete infected 3GP file. It is also advised to scan the entire system for malicious software and viruses with antivirus software.
  • For 3GP files downloaded from the internet it is advised to check if the file has been downloaded completely and is not corrupted. If not, the file should be re-downloaded.

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