How to Play an Encrypted .M4V
The M4V file format is used by digital videos that are released through iTunes. While the format can be used by free video podcast episodes, it may also be used by commercial media like movies and television shows. When an M4V file stores copyrighted material, it is usually encoded with Apple's FairPlay DRM protection. This form of digital encryption prevents media from being unlawfully reproduced and distributed. While users may not be able to modify, record and edit encrypted M4V files, they should have no issues with viewing them in a media player. In addition to iTunes, QuickTime and VLC are two light-weight applications that can be used to play encrypted M4V files.
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Instructions
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iTunes
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1
Launch iTunes. Go to “File” and select “Add File to Library…”
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Browse for the M4V file in the file selection window. Select the item and click the “Open.” The media will be imported into iTunes.
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3
Select the “Movies” link under the “Library Tab” on the sidebar. Select the listing for the imported M4V file.
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4
Click the “Play” button and the media will start streaming through iTunes. Use the commands on the control bar to manage playback of the M4V file.
QuickTime
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5
Launch QuickTime. Go to “File” and select “Open File…”
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Browse for the M4V file in the file selection window. Select the item and click the “Open.” The media will be loaded into QuickTime.
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Click the “Play” button and the media will start streaming through QuickTime. Use the commands on the control bar to manage playback of the M4V file.
VLC
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Launch VLC. Go to “Media” and select “Open File…”
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Browse for the M4V file in the file selection window. Select the item and click “Open.” The media will be loaded into VLC.
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Click the “Play” button and the media will start streaming through VLC. Use the commands on the control bar to manage playback of the M4V file.
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Tips & Warnings
Some protected M4V files are encoded so that they can only play under the iTunes account that purchased the media. While this type of M4V file cannot be played in external applications like QuickTime and VLC, they can play in iTunes if the buyer’s account is logged-in.
