.WEBM File Extension
WebM Video
| Developer | |
| Popularity |
4.0 | 529 Votes |
| Category | Video Files |
| Format | Binary |
What is a WEBM file?
A WEBM file is a video saved in the WebM format, an open, royalty-free format designed for sharing video on the web. WebM uses a container structure similar to the Matroska (.MKV) video format, which stores both audio and video data. Video is compressed using a VP8 or VP9 codec, and audio is compressed with either the Vorbis or Opus audio codec.
Several modern web browsers, such as Chrome, Edge, and Firefox, include built-in support for the WebM format. If your browser does not support WebM (e.g. Safari or Internet Explorer), you will need to install a WebM plug-in to play WebM media files.
WebM is an open-source, royalty-free alternative to the patented H.264 and H.265 standards. Since it is 100% free, the technology is suitable for commercial and non-commercial applications.
NOTE: Google acquired ON2, the original developer of VP8 technology, in 2010. The WebM Project represents Google in the Alliance for Open Media.
How do I open a WEBM file?
Since the WebM format was designed for the web, WEBM files are typically embedded in webpages (using an HTML5 <video> tag). In most cases, you can play a WebM audio or video file within a web browser using the on-screen controls. If you get an error saying the format is not supported, you can download the free WebM plug-in, install it in your browser, then reload the page.
You can also open and play a WEBM video in VLC media player (cross-platform). Additionally, you can convert WEBM videos to other formats in Miro Video Converter (Windows, Mac) or HandBrake (cross-platform).