The 3GA file format facilitates transfer of audio data between mobile devices. It was created by the 3rd Generation Partnership Project for standardized transfer of sound files over cellular networks. 3GA files use the Advanced Audio Coding standard allowing smaller sizes than MP3 with high quality. 3GA files are used for audio messages sent by mobile users. The small size and efficient encoding also allows usage for sound effects and music in mobile games.
3GA files use less disc space than standard audio formats, which is advantageous for mobile devices. Mobile and stationary devices can transfer 3GA files but may not properly handle them. Thousands of users face problems opening 3GA files daily. We explain what 3GA files are used for and list software that opens them.
3GA refers to 3GPP audio files containing audible content from 3GP video files. The 3rd Generation Partnership Project also created the popular 3GP format used for mobile video sharing. Mobile video players supporting 3GP also support 3GA for playing audio. Tools are available to convert 3GA to formats like WAV and MP3.
AMR codecs encode signals for efficient 3GA file storage on mobiles. 3GA files reduce overhead of storage and bandwidth. They use speech parameters and waveform signals. The container uses codecs like AMR-NB, AMR-WB+, AAC-LC and HE-AAC v2. Software supporting 3GA includes Windows Media Player, QuickTime Player and VLC Media Player.
VLC Media Player
FFmpeg
MPlayer