How to use the M4V converter
- Choose a file. Drop an M4V file to convert it to something else, or any other video to convert it to M4V.
- Check "Convert to". The converter picks MP4 for M4V files and M4V for everything else; change it if you need something different.
- Adjust quality if you want a smaller or higher-quality file.
- Click Convert and download the result.
What is an M4V file?
M4V is Apple's variant of MP4 used by iTunes and the Apple TV app. Files you make yourself are identical to MP4 inside; purchased iTunes movies carry FairPlay copy protection, which no converter is allowed to remove.
M4V is mainly used for iTunes and Apple TV video libraries and Handbrake exports. It plays on Apple devices, iTunes, VLC and most MP4 players.
M4V at a glance
| Full name | Apple MPEG-4 Video |
|---|---|
| Type | Video |
| Created by | Apple, 2003 |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Typical codecs | H.264 + AAC |
| Can be created here | Yes |
Pros and cons of M4V
Good
- Same quality and compatibility as MP4
- Supports chapters
Not so good
- Purchased M4V files are copy-protected
- Some Windows apps do not recognise the extension
Common M4V problems and fixes
An M4V you made will not open in an app
Convert M4V to MP4. It is a fast copy.
A purchased iTunes M4V fails to convert
It is copy-protected (DRM) and cannot be converted.
Popular M4V conversions
Frequently asked questions
How do I open an M4V file?
M4V files play on Apple devices, iTunes, VLC and most MP4 players. If yours will not open, convert it to MP4 on this page; that format plays on any device.
How do I convert a file to M4V?
Drop any video on this page. "Convert to" is set to M4V automatically for files that are not M4V already.
Do I have to pay or sign up to use the M4V converter?
No. There is no account, no payment and no watermark. The only limit is 1 GB per file, set by what browsers can handle.
Are my files safe?
Yes. Files are converted locally in your browser and are never uploaded. When you close the page, nothing is left behind.
Is M4V lossy?
Yes, M4V normally uses lossy compression, which removes detail you are unlikely to notice to keep files small.