AVI and MP3 explained
AVI is a Microsoft container from 1992. It predates modern video compression and lacks features taken for granted today, such as proper support for variable frame rates and modern codec metadata.
MP3 is the lossy audio format that made digital music portable. Its patents expired in 2017, which is part of why it remains ubiquitous — anyone can implement it freely.
- Where AVI files come from
- Old camcorders, legacy Windows software and archived downloads.
- Where MP3 is used
- Music libraries, podcasts and voice recordings.