What is the FLV Video Format?

FLV, which according to TopBits stands for Flash Video, has grown ubiquitous across the Web as a video file format. Macromedia, a company purchased by Adobe, created the Flash Video format.

Description

FLV operates as streaming video, meaning that the files download as they play. FLV files usually incorporate synchronized H.263 video and MP3 audio streams. Adobe offers its own Flash player software, and many other video players and plug-ins can play FLV files as well.

Uses

Many of the Web's most popular media services, including Google Video and YouTube, store their video files in FLV format for streaming playback to online viewers. Adobe states that up to 80 percent of all Internet videos make use of Flash technology.

Flash-based Alternatives

In addition to the .FLV file format, Flash users can also create video as SWF files. This file format allows them to embed short video clips into Flash animation programs. FLV works better for longer files, however, because Flash's animation timeline restricts the practical length of SWF videos.

References

• TopBits: FLV Files
• Adobe Developer Connection: FLV/F4V Technology Center