DIVX file extension is associated with the DivX format, which is a high quality compression video codec that is used for the distribution of videos. DivX format compresses videos to a fraction of their original size without sacrificing the quality. DIVX files are capable of supporting video resolutions up to high definition 1080 and are typically supported by the newer media electronics devices and programs.
DIVX files are data container files which are used to playback video and audio. The files contain data associated with the video, such as subtitles and chapters in addition to coding, audio, metadata and other information that is necessary for running a DIVX file.
DIVX extension can also be in an expanded DIVX 6 format which includes a codec and a player plus an optional media container format known as the DivX Media Format or DMF. The option file format supports DVD Video and VOB (Video Object) features and is used for the MPEG-4 Part 2 codec.
How to Open DIVX Files
DIVX files can be opened and played using a broad range of media players; however, only a few of the players will support the DIVX format. This is gradually changing as DIVX files become more widely used. Meanwhile you can still use media players that do not support DIVX format by using plugins and having the appropriate codec installed.
If you use Windows, you can open DIVX files with DivX 7 for Windows, CyberLink PowerDVD 12, Apple QuickTime Player with the DivX codec installed or Roxio Creator 2012.
For Mac OS X you should use DivX 7 for Mac, Apple QuickTime Player with the DivX codec installed, or Roxio Toast 11. Elmedia Player for Mac will also open DIVX files.
There are also several cross platform applications which will open and play DIVX files. These applications are compatible with Windows, Mac and Linux and include VideoLAN VLC Media Player which is an open source media player and RealNetworks RealPlayer.
You can also opt to use a video converter to change DIVX files to another format. Video conversion software for Windows includes Freemake Video Converter, Free Studio, Format Factory, and Hamster Free Video Converter.
For Mac OS X you can convert DIVX files using Smart Converter, Adapter, or FLV Crunch which is free conversion software.
If you use Linux, you can convert DIVX files using HandBrake, which is cross platform, Avidemux, or Transcoder, which is distributed under the GNU general public license.
