The file extension M4A, which stands for MPEG-4 Part 14, was developed by Apple in 2004 utilising the QuickTime File Format. Downloads of M4A files power the iTunes store (15 billion files worldwide). It is a digital multimedia container format for audio components, while it can also hold other types of data (including photos). You can save MPEG-4 Part 14 files with the M4A and MP4 extensions (the difference being MP4 is capable of storing video). There is a lossy compression option, similar to those found in other audio file types, and it uses AAC encoding. In contrast to conventional audio files, a lossless compression is now accessible, made feasible by the Apple Lossless format.
Due to its ability to be lossless as opposed to their lossy counterparts, M4A files are an upgrade over MP3 files. This indicates that the files can switch between the original audio file and file size. DRM technology prevents MP4 from being copied, however M4A files are simpler to share and duplicate. In order to enable consumers to buy audio and transfer the content to CDs or portable music players, the Apple store uses M4A files, which explains why. Utilizing the files in Windows can be challenging because it is strictly an Apple product. However, iTunes for Windows makes it feasible and converts the data to an audio file that is compatible with Windows (which will cause lossy compression).
list of programs that can open M4A documents:
- Apple QuickTime Player
- Apple iTunes
- Microsoft Windows Media Player
- VideoLan VLC Media Player