| Extension | .amv |
| Category | video |
| Description | The AMV format is a unique video file format designed for portable media players, particularly those used with S1 MP3 players. Video content within AMV files is typically encoded using a specific AMV codec. This codec effectively uses low-resolution (usually 160x120 or 220x176 pixels) and low bitrate—typically below 64 kbps—to ensure smooth playback on devices with limited processing power and display resolution. The audio content in these files is frequently encoded with the ADPCM (Adaptive Differential Pulse Code Modulation) codec, a codec requiring further explanation. |
| Technical details | AMV files are ideal for saving and playing short video clips, animations, and music videos on portable devices like MP3 players and mobile phones. This is due to their efficient playback and optimized memory usage, concepts needing more context. The AMV format's codec is optimized for efficiency on battery-constrained devices. The resolution of AMV files is usually capped at either 160x120 or 220x176 pixels, suitable for the small screens of portable media players. AMV files typically have a frame rate limit of 15 or 20 frames per second (fps), a restriction intentionally set to guarantee seamless playback on portable media players. Frame rate refers to the number of individual images (frames) displayed per second. Frames per second (fps) is a measure of how many times a sequence of images is displayed per second. The AMV format also supports limited color depth, commonly employing a palette of 256 colors or fewer. This limitation contributes to reducing file size and preserving memory resources, making it a suitable format for devices with restricted hardware capabilities. The implications of limited color depth need further explanation. |
