.m4v File — iTunes Video

M4V is Apple's video file format, essentially identical to MP4 but used specifically within the Apple ecosystem. M4V files use the same MPEG-4 Part 14 container as MP4, typically containing H.264 or H.265 video with AAC audio. The primary distinction is that M4V files from the iTunes Store may include Apple FairPlay DRM (Digital Rights Management) copy protection, restricting playback to authorized Apple devices and iTunes installations. Unprotected M4V files can often be renamed to .mp4 and played in any MP4-compatible player. M4V is the format used by iTunes for movie and TV show purchases and rentals, and is also the default output format when exporting video from some Apple applications. The format supports chapter markers, subtitle tracks, multiple audio tracks, accessibility features including audio descriptions, and iTunes-specific metadata. M4V files maintain full HD and 4K quality with efficient H.264/H.265 compression. While the DRM-protected variant is Apple-exclusive, the format otherwise maintains the excellent cross-platform compatibility of standard MP4.