M4V
Also known as: .m4v file, how to open m4v, iTunes video format
M4V is Apple’s video container, nearly identical to MP4 but with optional FairPlay DRM copy protection. iTunes and the Apple TV app use it for purchased and rented video; DRM-free M4V files often play simply by renaming them to .mp4.
- Apple’s MP4 variant, often with FairPlay DRM
- Purchased/rented video plays in the Apple TV app
- DRM-free M4V is effectively an MP4
Almost MP4, with Apple DRM
Technically M4V is the same MP4 container, usually holding H.264 video and AAC audio. The difference is that Apple uses the .m4v extension and can wrap the file in FairPlay DRM, which limits playback to your authorized Apple devices and accounts.
A DRM-protected M4V (a film you bought or rented) plays in the Apple TV app, not in arbitrary players. A DRM-free M4V — for example one you exported yourself — is just an MP4 and usually opens anywhere, sometimes after renaming it .mp4.
The storage angle
Because M4V uses the same efficient codecs as MP4, its size is comparable for similar content. Purchased movies and TV episodes can still be several gigabytes each and quietly fill device storage.
On iPhone and iPad you manage downloaded video in the TV or Apple TV app and can remove downloads you have finished watching; the originals stay in your purchase library to re-download later.