What is a MP3 file?
An MP3 file is an audio file. It is saved in a compressed audio format which was developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group (MPEG) and uses “Layer 3” audio compression (MP3). Because of the compression, quality is lost to get a small file size; however, the tradeoff is typically acceptable, which is why the format is so popular and wide-spread. Most commonly, it is used to store music but may also contain other audio content, such as an audiobook, lecture, or podcast. MP3 can be used with most audio players. In Windows, MP3 can be opened with Microsoft Windows Media Player, and in macOS, these files can be opened with Apple iTunes. There are a variety of other free and commercial audio players that provide different playback features and conversion capabilities.
How to Open MP3 Files
How to Make MP3 Files
Exact steps for creating MP3 files will vary by program and operating system. Download one of the above listed programs and you should be able to follow typical procedure for opening files or creating files from the File menu. Typically you will select File > Open or File > New and continue through the prompts. Some programs may follow a different procedure for either creation or opening of files.