Old Mobile Videos Won't Play on DVD Players?
You have video recordings from an older mobile phone saved as 3GP files. These compact files were designed for early smartphones and 3G networks, but they won't play on DVD players, most TVs, or older media systems that expect the MPG format.
Converting 3GP files to MPG gives you broad compatibility with DVD authoring software, set-top boxes, and legacy media players. MPG has been the standard video format for DVDs since the 1990s, and virtually every player supports it.
How to Convert 3GP to MPG
- Upload your 3GP file - Drag and drop or click to select your mobile video
- Select MPG as output - Choose MPG for maximum DVD and legacy device compatibility
- Download your video - Your converted MPG file is ready to use
The entire process runs in your browser. No software to install, no account required.
3GP vs MPG: Key Differences
These formats come from different eras of video technology:
- 3GP - Developed for 3G mobile networks in the early 2000s. Uses H.263 or H.264 video compression with AMR audio. Optimized for small file sizes on phones with limited storage.
- MPG - MPEG-1 and MPEG-2 format standardized in the early 1990s. Used for Video CDs, DVDs, and broadcast television. Resolution typically 352x240 (MPEG-1) up to 720x480 (MPEG-2).
In our testing, 3GP files from older phones often contain video at 176x144 or 320x240 resolution. Converting to MPG doesn't increase the actual quality, but it makes the video playable on systems that don't recognize 3GP.
When You Need This Conversion
Creating DVDs from Old Phone Videos
Have memorable videos from an old Nokia, Sony Ericsson, or early Android phone? Convert them to MPG so you can burn them to DVD using standard authoring software. Most DVD burning programs accept MPG directly.
Playing on Older TVs and Media Players
USB ports on older TVs and standalone media players often support MPG but not 3GP. Converting gives you playback options beyond your computer.
Archiving Mobile Memories
If you're preserving old mobile videos for the long term, MPG is a well-documented format that will remain readable for decades. Software support for obscure mobile formats may fade over time.
Quality Expectations
3GP videos from older phones were typically low resolution by today's standards. The conversion process preserves whatever quality exists in the original file. You won't see improvement beyond the source material, but you won't lose quality either.
If your 3GP file was recorded at 320x240, your MPG will be 320x240. The benefit is compatibility, not enhancement. For higher quality, consider converting to 3GP to MP4 if your target devices support it.
Alternative Formats to Consider
MPG is ideal for DVD players and legacy systems, but other formats might suit your needs better:
- 3GP to MPEG - MPEG and MPG are essentially the same format with different extensions. Some software prefers one over the other.
- 3GP to AVI - Better compatibility with older Windows systems and some media players.
- 3GP to MP4 - Best for modern devices, smartphones, and web playback.
Works on Any Device
This converter runs entirely in your browser:
- Windows, Mac, Linux, Chromebook
- Chrome, Firefox, Safari, Edge
- iPhone, iPad, Android tablets
No downloads or installations needed. Convert your 3GP files wherever you have internet access.