How to Convert WMV to MP4 in 2025
Need to convert WMV videos for your Apple devices? Here's how to quickly transform them into compatible files without losing quality.
If you're an Apple user, you've probably discovered that not all video formats work on your devices. This is particularly true for WMV (Windows Media Video) files, which play perfectly on Windows devices but cause headaches on iPhones, iPads, and Macs.
Let's solve this problem by converting those WMV files to MP4 format—a process that's much simpler than you might think.
Why Apple Devices Need MP4 Instead of WMV
Apple's "premium" approach comes with certain limitations, including restricted file format support. Despite what some users believe, you can't simply plug your iPhone into iTunes and transfer any video format.
When you try downloading videos to your Apple device without proper conversion, you'll often see that frustrating "file not supported" message. That's because many videos on the internet come in Windows Media Video (WMV) format, which Apple devices simply don't recognize.
Understanding Video Formats: WMV, MP4, and M4V
Before we dive into the conversion process, let's clarify the differences between these formats:
WMV (Windows Media Video)
Created by Microsoft, WMV files are compressed video files designed primarily for Windows systems. While they offer good compression rates, they're not compatible with Apple devices without conversion.
MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14)
A universal video container format that works across most devices and platforms. It supports various codecs while maintaining high quality and reasonable file sizes.
M4V (MPEG-4 Video)
Essentially Apple's version of MP4. The main difference? M4V files can include Apple's DRM (Digital Rights Management) protection. When converting with WALTR PRO, your files technically become M4V files, but they function exactly like MP4 files on Apple devices.
Format Comparison
Feature | WMV | MP4 | M4V |
---|---|---|---|
Developer | Microsoft | MPEG | Apple |
Compatibility | Windows, some Android | Universal | Apple devices, can play on others |
DRM Support | Yes (WMV-DRM) | Limited | Yes (FairPlay) |
Quality/Size Ratio | Good | Very Good | Very Good |
Apple Support | No | Yes | Yes (Preferred) |
Streaming | Limited | Excellent | Excellent |
What Makes MP4 Special for Apple
MP4 (MPEG-4 Part 14) was created by the Moving Picture Experts Group and stands as the most widely used digital multimedia container format. More importantly, it plays flawlessly on all Apple devices.
For anyone who enjoys videos on their iPhone, iPad, or Mac, converting WMV files to MP4 is essential. And no, Windows Media Player offers no built-in option to convert these formats—you'll need a third-party solution.
Note: When we talk about converting to MP4 for Apple devices, we're technically creating M4V files (Apple's version of MP4), but they function identically. WALTR PRO handles this conversion automatically, so you don't need to worry about the technical distinctions.
Converting WMV to MP4 (M4V) with WALTR PRO: 4 Simple Steps
While iTunes connects to your Apple devices, it can't convert files between formats. WALTR PRO solves this problem by automatically converting your videos during transfer, making the whole process remarkably simple.
WALTR PRO isn't limited to just WMV files either—you can use it as a WMV to MP4 converter and also for other conversions like TS to MP4 conversions or MOV to MP4 conversion.
Here's how to do it:
Step 1: Download & Install WALTR PRO

Download WALTR PRO from the official website. The installation takes just seconds.
Step 2: Run the Software

Launch WALTR PRO from the installation wizard or icon. You can activate your license or start a free 24-hour trial to test the app.
Step 3: Connect Your Device (Optional)
If you want to transfer the converted files directly to your iPhone or iPad:
- Connect your device to your computer via USB for first-time setup
- Tap "Trust this device" when prompted
- After the initial connection, you can transfer wirelessly through Wi-Fi (both devices must be on the same network)

Step 4: Drag & Drop for Conversion

- Open the folder with your WMV videos
- Drag and drop the files onto your chosen destination—either your computer or Apple device
- WALTR PRO automatically converts them to M4V format (Apple's version of MP4)
When the conversion finishes, you'll hear a notification sound and see a green "DONE" icon. To find your newly converted files, click "Show in Finder" or "Where are my files?" if you sent them to your device.

Why Choose WALTR PRO for WMV to MP4/M4V Conversion
✌🏼 Simple Process
Converting with WALTR PRO is faster and more straightforward than other methods, especially for those who aren't tech experts.
✅ No Quality Loss
Unlike many converters, WALTR PRO doesn't compress your videos during conversion. This means your M4V files maintain the same audio and video quality as the original WMV files—even for high-definition content.
🗂 Files Go Where They Belong
After conversion, WALTR PRO automatically adds your files to the appropriate apps—videos go to the Videos app or Apple TV, ready to play immediately. This saves you from hunting through folders or installing additional programs.
Final Thoughts
Even though Apple restricts certain file formats, tools like WALTR PRO make it easy to work around these limitations. Anyone can convert WMV to MP4/M4V, regardless of technical expertise.
Beyond WMV to MP4 conversion, WALTR PRO handles many other tasks like adding movies to your Apple TV library or transferring videos from PC to iPhone.
For users who love subtitles, check out adding subtitles to iPhone video.
FAQ
How do I convert WMV to MP4?
To convert WMV to MP4, you can use third-party software like WALTR PRO. It easily converts WMV files to MP4 during transfer, ensuring compatibility with Apple devices. Simply drag and drop the WMV file into the app, and it automatically converts and transfers the file.
Can Windows Media Player convert WMV to MP4?
No, Windows Media Player does not have a built-in feature to convert WMV to MP4. For such conversions, you must use a third-party converter like WALTR PRO, which simplifies the process by converting files during transfer to your Apple device.
Why can’t I play WMV files on my iPhone?
iPhones don’t natively support WMV files. To play WMV videos, you need to convert them to a format that Apple devices support, such as MP4. Software like WALTR PRO converts WMV to MP4 and transfers it seamlessly.
What is the best way to convert WMV to MP4 without losing quality?
Using a tool like WALTR PRO is one of the best ways to convert WMV to MP4 without any loss in quality. It ensures the video retains its original resolution and sound quality, even after conversion, without compressing the file.
Why do Apple devices prefer MP4 format?
Apple devices prefer MP4 because it’s a widely accepted, high-quality multimedia format developed by the Moving Picture Experts Group. MP4 files work seamlessly on iPhones, iPads, and Macs, providing excellent video and audio playback.