A COLLAB file is a session file used by Blackboard Collaborate Launcher, a utility that allows users to launch Blackboard Collaborate web conferencing sessions and recordings. It contains a link to a conferencing session or recording that launches Blackboard Collaborate and brings the user to the session or recording.

In order to open a COLLAB file, you must have the Collaborate Launcher installed on your computer. Follow the steps below to download and install the Collaborate Launcher: Go to the Blackboard Collaborate website and log in to your course. Click "Join Room." Select "Join Room" on the Room Details page or click a recording link from the "Recordings" table. Download the Blackboard Collaborate Launcher when prompted. Once you download and install the launcher, click the session or recording link again from the Blackboard Collaborate website. The download of the COLLAB file (meeting.collab or play.collab) begins and will be saved to your "Downloads" folder. You can also access the COLLAB file through your browser (at the bottom of the window for Chrome users). The COLLAB file can be opened with the Blackboard Collaborate Launcher.