MBTILES is a file format to store tilesets. It allows packaging files into a single tileset. Mapbox Studio is software to design map styles and manage location data. You can open MBTILES files in Mapbox Studio and other mapping programs like MBView and MapTiler Desktop.
To open an MBTILES file in Mapbox Studio, log in and select New tileset. Upload the MBTILES file which gets stored in Custom tilesets. MBTILES contains pre-tiled data. Access is fast without need for local caching.
MBTILES uses SQLite database to store map layers. It supports PNG and JPG tile formats. The specification defines tile scheme and scales following TMS of OSGeo and Web Mercator. MBTiles is not streamable over HTTP without additional software.
If seeking information on file extensions, this explains what MBTILES files are. We provide guidance on handling these files across various applications. With MBTILES from unknown sources, be cautious as harmful programs can create such files too.
MapBox Studio
QGIS
TileMill