QCIF stands for Quarter Common Intermediate Format, a video resolution standard used primarily in mobile and video conferencing applications. It has a resolution of 176x144 pixels, which is one-quarter of the Common Intermediate Format (CIF) resolution of 352x288 pixels. This lower resolution allows for reduced bandwidth usage, making it suitable for devices with limited processing power and network capabilities. QCIF is often utilized in applications like video calls and streaming, where maintaining a stable connection is more critical than achieving high image quality. By using QCIF, users can enjoy smoother video transmission even in low-bandwidth situations, ensuring better communication and interaction.