The MOV (QuickTime Movie) video format is a multimedia container format developed by Apple. It is capable of containing various types of media data, including video, audio, and text, making it versatile for multimedia applications. MOV files often use the H.264 video codec and AAC audio codec, providing high-quality compression. Widely associated with Apple's QuickTime Player, MOV files are compatible with both macOS and Windows platforms, offering a flexible solution for video playback and editing applications.