M4V Files
M4V files are Apple’s own version of the MP4 container format. Similar in both name and nature, these files both contain video content to play back on devices. In M4V’s case, it’s mainly used on iOS devices for video content hosted in platforms like iTunes and Apple Music.
Discover more about the M4V format today.
What is a M4V file?
M4V files are a video container format developed by Apple, with many similarities to MP4s. If you download movies, music videos or episodes from the iTunes store, then you’ve probably seen the M4V format used.
All M4V files have an additional layer of security built in, compared to a standard MP4 file, known as Digital Rights Management (DRM) protection. Apple introduced this to restrict any unauthorized replication of copyrighted content retailed on their platforms like iTunes or Apple Music.
When played on media players like QuickTime, M4V files will use the H.264 video streaming codec, alongside Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) and Dolby Digital audio compression. These two audio technologies allow for high-quality audio, even when compressed to save on file size.
History of the M4V file.
The .M4V file extension was originally developed by Apple for use on video content either sold or rented via their iTunes Store. When iTunes began retailing videos back in 2005, Apple wanted to create a secure way of sharing copyrighted content, such as TV episodes, movies, and other video content onto people’s devices.
While similar to MP4, M4Vs allowed Apple to copy-protect the content, thanks to DRM copy protection, meaning the files could be checked for authentication via iTunes. This helps to combat piracy of TV and movie content, making it more difficult for the files to be replicated illegally.
How to use M4V files.
M4V files play multimedia, primarily video such as episodes or full-length movies, that are been purchased from the iTunes store. While they’re similar in function to MP4 files, M4Vs adhere to Apple’s FairPlay DRM copyright protection.
Though not all files are necessarily encrypted, those that are must be on an authorised computer by a linked iTunes account.
For those looking to secure and distribute their video through iTunes this can be a convenient safety net but may come with limitations if attempting to upload the file on other video hosting platforms.
Pros and cons of M4V files.
Pros.
- Copyright protection. M4V files aren’t as large as other similar formats. That’s because they use pixel-wise differential coding. This occurs in-between frames and helps reduce the overall file size.
- Compression. M4V compression makes it convenient for users who want to store files efficiently, without taking up too much storage space and losing video quality.
- Fast loading speed. Similar to MP4, M4V file types offer fast loading speeds despite the high-quality playback.
Cons.
- Limited compatibility. While M4V files can work across platforms, the copyright protection measures can cause difficulties in playback. However, not all M4V files require authentication.
- Unable to upload protected files. Due to the copyright protection, many upload sites cannot accept M4V files as uploads and you may need to convert it first.
Find out which container file types are supported by Adobe Premiere Pro
How to open a M4V file.
Simply double-click any unprotected M4V to play it with most media players. If you’ve protected your M4V file, you may need to authorise your computer on iTunes first. This simply involves logging in with the account you used to purchase the M4V in the first place then following the above steps.
How to create and edit a M4V file.
Adobe Premiere Pro can export files as M4V and also convert existing filetypes such as an MP4. You can also convert files to or from an unprotected MP4 using most media players or by changing the file extension.
To open up the file in Adobe Premiere Pro, simply create a new project, double-click the M4V file you want to open, and you can start editing it from there.
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What’s the difference between an M4V and an MP4?
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What file type is most like M4V?
Is M4V widely used?
Learn more about similar file types to M4V.
MP4.
Learn more about one of the most commonly used video container filetypes and discover how it works.
MKV.
Discover more about MKV files and how they might suit your next creative project.
MXF.
Explore the world of MXF files, one of the industry’s gold standards for video and audio.
Learn more and start editing your M4V files with video editing software that can help make your next creation make an impact:
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