Audio · .m4a
What Is an M4A File?
A .m4a file is an MPEG-4 audio file, usually AAC, used by Apple devices.
- Extension
- .m4a
- Full name
- MPEG-4 Audio
- Type
- Audio
- MIME type
- audio/mp4
- Developed by
- MPEG / popularised by Apple
Free M4A Tools
These run in your browser. Your M4A files are never uploaded.
About M4A Files
M4A is an MPEG-4 container holding only audio, usually compressed with AAC, which sounds better than MP3 at the same size. It can also hold Apple Lossless (ALAC) audio. iPhone Voice Memos, iTunes and Apple Music downloads, and many other apps save M4A files. Most modern devices play them, but some older car stereos, players and websites only accept MP3. Files with the .m4b extension are the same format used for audiobooks with chapters.
How to Open an M4A File
- Windows
- Double-click to play it in Media Player, or use VLC.
- Mac
- Open it in Music or QuickTime Player.
- iPhone & Android
- Plays in the Files app, Voice Memos or most music players.
M4A File Questions
Why do my iPhone voice memos save as M4A?
The Voice Memos app uses AAC audio in an M4A file because it sounds good and stays small. Convert them to MP3 if another device won't play them.
Is M4A the same as MP4?
They use the same container format. M4A is the name used when the file holds only audio.