About M4V files
M4V is Apple's variant of MP4, used by some Apple apps and exports. Unprotected M4V files are effectively MP4s.
Common sources: Apple apps and exports, older iTunes-style video files you made yourself.
Unprotected M4V files read like MP4. Files protected with DRM (purchased films or shows) cannot be opened — and shouldn't be processed.
M4V to text
If an M4V won't open, it is probably DRM-protected; only files you own the rights to can be processed.
A coach exports a 26-minute training session from an Apple app as M4V and transcribes it for a client.
Cost: 26 credits (2.6¢).
Translating a M4V
Rename-free: an unprotected .m4v can be dropped in as-is.
A designer translates a 5-minute M4V portfolio walkthrough into Japanese.
Cost: 250 credits (25¢) with a translated voice, or 5 credits (0.5¢) for translated text only. Switch Full translation output on in the tool above for a voice track.
Using the tool on this page
- The spoken language is detected automatically; you select the output language — the spoken language itself for an untranslated transcript, or another language for a translation. Files can be up to 2 hours long.
- Only the audio is sent for processing — the video stays on your device — and audio and text are deleted within 30 minutes of delivery (how files are protected).
- You can download a timestamped transcript, subtitles (SRT and VTT) and plain text. Every output, step and limit is explained on the video to text page.
Frequently asked questions
Why can't I open my M4V?
M4Vs bought from a store are DRM-protected and can't be read by the browser. Unprotected M4V exports work like MP4.
Can I translate movies I bought on iTunes?
No. Purchased videos are DRM-protected and you don't hold the rights to translate them. Use your own recordings.