Can Flip Video Be Viewed With Other Software?

Flip camcorders are known for being easy to use. Just point and shoot. And, because Flip video comes with the 3ivx compatibility software, viewing Flip videos on a computer is easy, as well.

FlipShare

The first time a Flip camcorder is plugged into any computer, a dialogue box opens asking the user to download FlipShare, Flip's proprietary software. Clicking "I Agree," will install FlipShare from the camcorder to the computer.

3ivx Codec

Installing FlipShare also installs the 3ivx video compatibility software, which is also known as the 3ivx MPEG-45.0.x Decoder. This component is necessary for playing Flip videos in other programs.

Save in FlipShare

In order to view videos imported from a Flip camera in other software, you must first save them to the computer by clicking "Save to Computer" in the action bar at the bottom of the FlipShare screen.

Export

Videos saved within FlipShare are in a proprietary format, known as MPEG-4 part 2, Advanced Simple Profile (ASP) and saves them in .AVI format. To watch these videos outside of FlipShare, use the "Export to" function, found in the "File" menu.

View in Other Software

Videos exported out of FlipShare can be opened with most other video programs, including Windows Media Player and QuickTime Player.

References

• Flip Video Q&A
• 3ivx official site