M4A is an audio-only MPEG-4 container popularized by Apple. It usually contains AAC lossy audio, but can also contain ALAC (Apple Lossless).
M4A is the format of iTunes Store purchases, Apple Music downloads (which are DRM-protected and use .m4p in older cases), iPhone Voice Memos and many podcast and audiobook files. It supports detailed tags, album art and chapters. Because it is an MPEG-4 file, it is nearly identical to MP4 without video.
| Extension | .m4a |
|---|---|
| Full name | MPEG-4 Audio |
| Type | Audio |
| Typical size | about 1–2 MB per minute (AAC); 5–7 MB per minute (ALAC) |
How to open a .m4a file
| Device | How to open it |
|---|---|
| Windows | Media Player and the Apple Music app play M4A natively; VLC also works. |
| Mac | Music, QuickTime and Quick Look play M4A natively. |
| iPhone / iPad | Music, Voice Memos and Files play M4A natively. |
| Android | Most music players and VLC play M4A with AAC; ALAC support varies by player. |
| Linux | VLC, mpv and Rhythmbox with codec packages play M4A. |
Converting .m4a files
M4A is commonly converted to MP3 for older devices or to WAV for audio editing using Audacity, ffmpeg, VLC or the Music app's Convert option. ALAC M4A converts to FLAC losslessly.
How to send a .m4a file
- Open sendryo.com on the device that has the file and add it.
- Tap Get share code.
- On the other device, enter the code — the .m4a file arrives directly, unchanged, at full quality.
Tips for sharing .m4a files
- Voice Memos shared from iPhone are M4A; most Android phones play them, but mention VLC if the recipient has trouble.
- Apple Music downloads are DRM-protected and will not play for others; only share files you own outright.
- Use file sharing rather than messaging apps that may transcode audio to save bandwidth.
Frequently asked questions
Is M4A better than MP3?
M4A usually contains AAC audio, which sounds better than MP3 at the same bitrate. If it contains ALAC, it is lossless. MP3 is supported by more old hardware, but on modern phones and computers M4A works everywhere and often gives better quality per megabyte.
How do I convert M4A to MP3?
In the Apple Music app on Mac or Windows, set the import format to MP3 and choose File > Convert > Create MP3 Version. Audacity, VLC and ffmpeg also convert M4A to MP3. Converting lossy to lossy loses a little quality.
Can Android play M4A files?
Yes. Android supports M4A with AAC audio natively, so Voice Memos and iTunes purchases without DRM play in most music apps. ALAC files may need a player like VLC. DRM-protected files cannot be played outside Apple apps.
How do I send a large .m4a file?
Open Sendryo on both devices, add the .m4a file and share the 6-digit code. It goes directly to the other device at original quality, with no size limit set by us and no upload to a server.