M4A file format
MPEG-4 Audio (.m4a): music on Apple devices and voice memos.
M4A is an MP4 file with only audio inside, usually AAC. iTunes purchases, Apple Music downloads and iPhone Voice Memos are M4A. It sounds better than MP3 at the same size, but some older devices, car stereos and upload forms accept only MP3.
| Full name | MPEG-4 Audio |
|---|---|
| File extension | .m4a, .m4b |
| MIME type | audio/mp4 |
| Created | 2001 by the MPEG group; popularized by Apple iTunes |
| Compression | Lossy |
| Typical bitrate | 128–256 kbps AAC |
| Size | 1–2 MB per minute |
| Plays on | iPhone, Mac, Android and most modern players; some older car stereos and apps prefer MP3 |
| Best for | music on Apple devices and voice memos |
Advantages
- Better quality than MP3 at the same size
- Default for Apple devices and voice memos
Drawbacks
- Some older players and forms accept only MP3
Convert M4A to…
Convert to M4A
Frequently asked questions
What is a .m4a file?
M4A is an MP4 file with only audio inside, usually AAC. iTunes purchases, Apple Music downloads and iPhone Voice Memos are M4A. It sounds better than MP3 at the same size, but some older devices, car stereos and upload forms accept only MP3.
How do I open a M4A file?
M4A files open on iPhone, Mac, Android and most modern players; some older car stereos and apps prefer MP3. If a program will not open yours, convert it to a more common format.
Is M4A lossless?
No, M4A uses lossy compression: some detail is discarded to make files smaller.
How do I convert M4A?
Use one of the converters below — they run in your browser, so your audio files are never uploaded. Most popular: M4A to MP3, M4A to WAV, M4A to FLAC.