How to Fix QuickTime MOV Not Playing?

Apple has brought about a lot of media handling options for users, with QuickTime being one of the main ones. QuickTime allows you to check all the video displays. While it is used for playing videos, in some cases, it will not play the videos. It will load the videos partially. So, it can be very frustrating if you're a Mac user.

If you are using the MOV file and fail to open it, you need to adopt the proper steps to fix it. You will be able to fix the troubleshooting issue. This blog will guide you on how to recover the files and help resolve the resolution. As a result, you will be able to overcome the quicktime mov not playing errors.

Why can't QuickTime Player play MOV files?

QuickTime is available for both Mac and iOS devices. It is distributed for free on these platforms. Apple developed MOV as a video method that works seamlessly with QuickTime. Despite MOV files being compatible with QuickTime, they may often fail to play for a variety of reasons.

Some of the major reasons why quicktime mov not playing are as follows:

Media Encoding

If the MOV file fails to load in any other media player apart from QuickTime, there is a chance that the asset will be corrupted. When the digital video isn’t encoded correctly, QuickTime won’t be able to read it. Even if the particular asset is in a compatible format, it won’t work appropriately. Therefore, there will be problems because of mov not compatible with quicktime player.

Filename Accuracy

Filename inaccuracy may be one of the main reasons why MOV files won't be playing. The file extension will determine what type of software will be opening the file. Nonetheless, the file extensions can be easily edited, which may cause a problem of the files being inaccurately assigned. Thus, Quicktime player can’t open mov due to incompatibility issues.

When filename inaccuracy occurs, QuickTime will not identify the digital video, leading to incompatibility. However, there are tools that you can use to check Image name issues and their properties. Furthermore, you can confirm whether the file extension is appropriate.

Inappropriate Codec

If the MOV is in the compatible and appropriate format, there might be some cases or files for which you are not able to play the video. This is mostly because of a codec error caused by the video being saved inappropriately. Inappropriate codec will lead to mov not compatible with quicktime player.

During compression, different streams of video and audio tracks are written with the help of a new algorithm known as codec. If the MOV does not work in QuickTime, it is mostly because the system didn't read the digital video codecs.

Frozen Frame

Slow internet can often interrupt the ability of the files being played. At the same time, it can have a negative impact when the file is being downloaded. This is one of the main reasons why Quicktime player can’t open MOV. When the file hasn't been downloaded properly, there will always be an increased risk of frozen frames for your MOV files. As a result, QuickTime wouldn't be able to read the file, making it difficult for the video to be played.

What Type of Files Can QuickTime Play?

QuickTime is known for being compatible with QuickTime file format, MOV. However, it can also support and play other types of files, such as:

• MPEG-1
• MPEG-2
• MPEG-3
• 3GPP
• 3GPP-2
• AVCHD
• DV
• MJPEG
• AVI Motion

QuickTime is also compatible with playing some audio file formats such as AAC, AIFF, and WAV.

6 Ways to Fix QuickTime Player Can’t Open MOV File

Once you have identified the cause of the QuickTime MOV File not playing, it will be easier for you to apply targeted solutions. This will play an important role in overcoming the issue properly. Some of the key ways through which you can fix quicktime mov not playing are as follows:

Fix 1. Repair Corrupted MOV File Using Wondershare Recoverit

Wondershare Recoverit is one of the top tools for fixing videos, audio, and images. You can gain popularity, thereby offering extensive results. The tool offers both Advanced and Quick Repair features. Therefore, you can scan and use the sample file to recover the damaged files. The tool is available for free download for MacOS and Windows.

With the Quick Repair facility of Wondershare Recoverit, you will be able to fix the MOV files in no time. You can follow the steps given below to repair and recover the corrupted videos using Wondershare Recoverit:

Step 1: Launch and Add Corrupted Video

Download, install, and launch Wondershare Recoverit on your computer. Then, you can click ‘+’ to use the Add Button to upload the corrupted files you want to repair. Search for the files that you want to upload and click on Open. Then, you can upload the file.

Step 2: Begin the Repair Process

After the file is uploaded, click on the Repair option. The video repair process will begin. You must wait and check the indication until the file recovery process is complete.

Step 3: Preview the Repaired File

Once the repair process is complete, you will receive a preview of the MOV files. You need to click on the Preview option. Check the file preview, and if it seems okay, click the Recover button.

You must opt for advanced repair if the repaired MOV file is damaged. Recoverit has Advanced Repair. Follow the steps given below to conduct an Advanced Repair for the files.

Step 1: Upload the MOV Sample Video

Click on the Advanced Repair option available on the video. Now, you will have to upload a sample video. The sample video should match the damaged files' size and format. It should be shot on a similar type of device.

Step 2: Start the Advanced Repair Process

Once you upload the sample video, click on the Repair option. This will initiate the repairing process. After the repair, you can preview the files and save them in the desired location.

Fix 2. Update QuickTime Player

Updating QuickTime Player to the latest version is essential, especially to overcome compatibility issues. This will allow the newest version of QuickTime to open the MOV files properly. If you are using it on Mac, QuickTime will integrate into the operating system and will be updated with the macOS updates. This will help to fix MOV not opening in Quicktime issues.

However, follow the steps below if it still needs to be updated automatically. This will help in updating QuickTime with macOS updates:

Step 1: On the screen's top-left corner, you will see the Apple menu; click on it.

Step 2: From the available drop-down menu, click on “System Preferences”.

Step 3: Now, in the menu, you will have to click on Software Update.

Step 4: Give it a few minutes, Mac will check for potential updates. If the update is available, you will get the notification. Click on Update Now or Upgrade Now, and the updating process will begin.

Step 5: The on-screen instructions will be available on it. Go through them and open them to complete the update.

Step 6: The update will be complete after some time. Now, you must restart your Mac system and relaunch the QuickTime Player on your device. Try to see if the MOV file is playing in it or not.

Fix 3. Check with QuickTime

Several people use Mac to play MOV files, which is why they use QuickTime. QuickTime won't play the MOV videos if the files become corrupted. This will help you determine if the mov file not compatible with quicktime player.

Some of the key ways to repair the corrupted files by checking with QuickTime include the following:

Step 1: Open QuickTime Player 7 on your profile and upload the damaged MOV file. The video will come with a black screen error.

Step 2: Click on Show Movie Inspector available under the Windows tab. Here, you can verify all the details under Movie Inspector, such as pixel information, duration, data rate, and more.

Step 3: If the file is corrupted, the black screen error message will display, providing information with the movie file's metadata.

Fix 4. Increase Cache Values in the VLC Player

Increasing cache values in VLC Player will only work when you have to corrupt MOV files. When the video lags, stutters or is jerky, you will have to face problems. In this case, the cache values will need to be increased for the VLC Player.

You can follow the steps given below to increase cache values in the VLC Player to fix quicktime mov not playing:

Step 1: Open VLC Media Player on your computer and click on Tool options. From the drop-down menu, choose preferences.

Step 2: From the dialog box at the bottom, you will get two options- Simple and All. Click on All.

Step 3: Now, a drop-down menu with Advanced Preferences will appear. Choose the Input/Codecs option. A list will appear. Move to the list and select the advanced options.

Step 4: In the Advanced option, you will come across the File caching (ms) option. Change the cache value from 300 to more, like 1000 or above.

Step 5: After mentioning the information, click the Save option. After that, restart the VLC Media Player.

Fix 5. Convert the MOV File to MP4

When QuickTime isn't playing the MOV files despite the above methods, converting the MOV file into MP4 is advisable. This will be possible if you are using the latest version of macOS. Sometimes, MOV won’t open in QuickTime because of compatibility issues. Therefore, consider converting the MOV file into MP4.

Although you have an iMovie, try converting to MP4 for better ideas. You can follow the steps given below to ensure a proper conversion:

Step 1: Open iMovie on your Mac and click on the ‘+’ icon from the toolbar. You can also click on the File option and then New Project to start making a new movie.

Step 2: Now, select the Import Media option to upload the MOV file you want to convert to MP4.

Step 3: In the upper toolbar towards the left, you will come across the ‘File’ option. Now, from the drop-down menu, choose Share. You will get a submenu where you have to click on File.

Step 4: In the pop-video that appears, you will have to customize the Video settings as per the requirements. Click Next. Now, you must select the location where you want to save the file.

Step 5: Hit the Save button. The conversion process will take a few minutes, and the file will be saved into the selected destination.

Browse the file again once the conversion is completed and the file is saved in the selected location. Since it has already been converted to MP4, you can open the same in QuickTime Player and determine if it is playing. The player should be able to load the file and play it by fixing the quicktime mov not playing.

Fix 6. Open MOV Files Using Alternative Media Players

If QuickTime is creating similar problems, especially in terms of playing the MOV files, it is advisable that you play the video in alternative files. You can consider checking the alternative media players with acceptance for broader format compatibility to avoid MOV won’t play in QuickTime. Some of the popular media players that you can consider are as follows:

• VLC Media Player: VLC Media Player is a top media player that can support a wide range of video formats, even MOV. It has a built-in codec that eliminates the risk of getting extra installations. You can download and install VLC Media Player from the website and then open that on VLC. This will allow a smooth playback.

• MPV: If you are looking for an open-source media player, then you must use MPV. It is known for its high performance and simplicity. Like VLC Media Player, MPV will also support various video formats such as MOV. Furthermore, you can also get customization for advanced users. You can download the same for your Mac.

• IINA: IINA has been designed specifically for Mac users and supports various video formats. It comes with a sleek interface and a great multimedia experience. You can download and install IINA from their official website and then play MOV files.

Smart Tips to Avoid MOV File Not Opening in QuickTime

If you have been struggling to open the MOV file in QuickTime, you must take the right steps. Some of the key tips that can help solve the MOV won’t open in QuickTime errors are as follows:

• Look for corruption: You should check for corruption if the MOV file is damaged and corrupted. Depending on that, consider using a file repair software or any other media player for compatibility.
• Choose a compatible media player: You must know that there are software and devices that can support different codecs. Therefore, choosing a compatible media player supporting the MOV file is essential. You can opt for another device if it is not working on QuickTime.

• Verify the file extension: You must check the file extension. Sometimes, you may need to be aware that the extension is incompatible. Check the .mov extension and choose another one. You may convert the .mov extension to MP4 and check whether compatibility issues are resolved.
• Convert the video in QuickTime: If the .mov files haven't been working, it is advisable to convert the video to QuickTime format. Select the MOV group for the Video section and choose the preset. Once that is done, you can resolve the QuickTime video error.

Conclusion

All the above solutions should help you fix QuickTime Player, which can't open the files on Mac. You need to ensure that you follow these methods appropriately so that the problems can be solved. Nonetheless, if the video can't be repaired, you must choose a professional recovery tool to help fix the problem. As a result, you can easily repair the damaged and corrupted files, making it playable on your device in a few minutes.