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M4V file format

Extension.m4v
Categoryvideo
Programs
Apple iTunes
VLC Media Player
Main programApple QuickTime Player
Description.mv (MPEG- Video File) The .mv format is a video file format developed by Apple. It is very similar to the .mp format, as it is based on the MPEG- codecThe primary difference is that MV files may optionally be protected by DRM copy protection. Apple uses this format primarily in iTunes Store for video files, including movies, TV shows, and music videos. MV files can be played on Apple devices like iPhones, iPads, and iPods, as well as on PCs using iTunes or other compatible software.
Technical detailsThe `.m4v` format is an Apple-developed video container with these features: - **MP4 Similarity**: Closely related to MP4, but M4V may include Apple's FairPlay DRM. - **Video Codec**: Typically uses H.264 for high-quality, low-bitrate video, suitable for HD. - **Audio Codec**: Primarily encodes audio with AAC, also supports codecs like AC3. - **DRM Protection**: M4V files from iTunes often have DRM, restricting use to authorized Apple devices/accounts. - **Compatibility**: Non-DRM M4V files are broadly compatible; DRM-restricted files limited to Apple software/devices. - **File Conversion**: Convertible to formats like MP4, complicated by DRM if present. - **Subtitles/Closed Captions**: Supports accessibility and multilingual needs. - **Streaming**: Well-suited for streaming, especially in Apple's ecosystem. - **Metadata Support**: Includes metadata for media library organization in applications like iTunes. - **iTunes/Apple TV Usage**: Commonly used for media in iTunes Store, optimized for Apple devices including Apple TV. - **Aspect Ratio/Resolution**: Supports various aspect ratios and resolutions for standard and HD video content. `.m4v` is notable for its use in Apple's digital media platforms, leveraging efficient codecs and features like DRM and subtitles, making it ideal for Apple-centric video distribution and playback.
MIME type
video/x-m4v