MP4A File Extension

What is MP4A file?

MP4A filename suffix is mostly used for MPEG-4 MP4A Codec Audio files. MPEG-4 MP4A Codec Audio format was developed by Apple, Inc.. Files with MP4A extension may be used by programs distributed for Android, Windows platform. MP4A file format, along with 771 other file formats, belongs to the Audio Files category. Apple iTunes supports MP4A files and is the most frequently used program to handle such files, yet 2 other tools may also be used.

Programs which support MP4A file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with MP4A files, divided into 2 categories based on operating system on which they are available. MP4A files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

How to open file with MP4A extension?

Being unable to open files with MP4A extension can be have various origins. On the bright side, the most encountered issues pertaining to MPEG-4 MP4A Codec Audio files aren’t complex. In most cases they can be addressed swiftly and effectively without assistance from a specialist. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Get the Apple iTunes

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening MP4A files is that no program that can handle MP4A files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Apple iTunes or one of the recommended programs (for example, VLC media player, VLC media player for Android) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. The full list of programs grouped by operating systems can be found above. The safest method of downloading Apple iTunes installed is by going to developer’s website () and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Check the version of Apple iTunes and update if needed

You still cannot access MP4A files although Apple iTunes is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. It may also happen that software creators by updating their applications add compatibility with other, newer file formats. The reason that Apple iTunes cannot handle files with MP4A may be that the software is outdated. The latest version of Apple iTunes should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate MPEG-4 MP4A Codec Audio files with Apple iTunes

If you have the latest version of Apple iTunes installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage MP4A on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Selecting the first-choice application in Windows

• Choose the Open with entry from the file menu accessed by right-mouse clicking on the MP4A file
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where Apple iTunes is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open MP4A files and clicking OK.

Selecting the first-choice application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with MP4A extension, select Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select Apple iTunes and click Change for all...
• If you followed the previous steps a message should appear: This change will be applied to all files with MP4A extension. Next, click the Continue button to finalize the process.

Step 4. Verify that the MP4A is not faulty

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper MP4A file. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. The MP4A may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

If the file is infected, the malware that resides in the MP4A file hinders attempts to open it. Scan the MP4A file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. MP4A file is infected with malware? Follow the steps suggested by your antivirus software.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the MP4A file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. It is possible that the file has not been properly copied to a data storage and is incomplete and therefore cannot be opened. If the MP4A file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Log in using an administrative account and see If this solves the problem.

4. Make sure that the system has sufficient resources to run Apple iTunes

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support MP4A files. Close all running programs and try opening the MP4A file.

5. Verify that your operating system and drivers are up to date

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with MPEG-4 MP4A Codec Audio file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with MP4A files affecting older versions of given software.

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