What is one main characteristic of the AVI file format?

The AVI file format, which stands for Audio Video Interleave, is primarily associated with Microsoft Windows. It was introduced by Microsoft in 1992 and is designed to combine audio and video data into a single file for synchronous playback. While it can be played on various platforms, its original design and optimal performance are linked closely to Windows operating systems. The format allows for high-quality audio and video but does not inherently support advanced compression techniques, which can make file sizes larger compared to some other modern formats.

In contrast, other choices address characteristics that do not align with AVI's main functionalities. For instance, while AVI files can be played on systems beyond Windows, they are not natively compatible with all operating systems, and thus the claim of universal compatibility isn’t accurate. Additionally, AVI files are specifically designed to handle both audio and video rather than being used primarily for audio files. Lastly, the format does not emphasize high compression; in fact, it is sometimes criticized for producing larger file sizes compared to other formats that utilize more advanced compression techniques.