What Is an M4P File?
A file with the M4P file extension is an iTunes audio file, or sometimes called an iTunes Music Store audio file. It’s really just an AAC file that’s copy-protected using a proprietary DRM technology created by Apple. This format is seen when downloading music from the iTunes Store. A similar file is M4A, which is also an iTunes audio file, but one that isn’t copy protected.
How to Open an M4P File
M4P files can be opened with Apple’s iTunes. However, the computer you’re using iTunes on must be authorized in order to play the file, which is done by logging into iTunes under the same account that was used to download the file. See these steps for authorizing your computer in iTunes if you need help. Apple’s QuickTime might be able to play M4P files, too. Another option is the free PotPlayer.
How to Convert an M4P File
FileZigZag is a free file converter that converts M4P files to MP3 online, meaning you just have to upload the file to that website to convert it to MP3, M4A, M4R, WAV, and other audio formats. TuneClone M4P Converter is another way to convert M4P files to MP3 and is more useful than FileZigZag in that you don’t have to upload the files to convert them—the program works from your computer instead of through your browser. However, the trial version only supports converting the first three minutes of each file.
Still Can’t Open It?
If your file still isn’t opening after trying the programs mentioned above, and you’re sure it’s not really an MP4 video file, check the file extension again. It’s really easy to mix up file extensions when they look similar. For example, M4 is used for Macro Processor Library files. These are simply text files, so they can’t play in iTunes or any media player. M4U is another one you might confuse for an M4P file. They’re MPEG-4 playlist files, so instead of being an audio or video file, they are references to video clips that a video player can use to play those files. Even though it uses a simple file extension, M files could be confused for this one, too.
