QuickTime/Preview won't play video files from server

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Level 1

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QuickTime/Preview won't play video files from server

I have a NAS that I use for media storage. On this server, I have several files in m4v format. In the past, these files have played without issue on my Mac using QuickTime or Preview in Finder.

Recently, clicking on the files opens Quicktime, and then nothing happens. No error, no window openning, no buffering. In Finder, the videos just seem to continue buffering.

Using VLC does not produce the same issue -- the videos play without an issue and quickly open.

Any troubleshooting advice?

14" M1 Pro MBP with latest stable release of MacOS 13.1

MacBook Pro Apple Silicon

Posted on Feb 12, 2023 02:50 PM

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Answer 1

brbo

Level 8

38,107 points

Feb 14, 2023 09:56 PM in response to majkel_27

Hi majkel_27,

Welcome to the Apple (user-to-user) Community.

Re: QuickTime/Preview won't play video files from server

Seems, for some time now, Apple have been using HEVC (H.265) as their prime video format. Using HEIF or HEVC media on Apple devices – Apple Support

Seems a .m4v (MPEG-4 Video) file is an iTunes format (H246 video and mp4 audio)

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Re: Any troubleshooting advice?

If QuickTime on MacOS13 no longer opens .m4v, it may need a codec to play that.

If you have VLC and your .m4v videos play on that, maybe that's the way to go.

Else:

Gain the know-how to find and install the codec your .m4v files likely need.

(Sorry, am no help there)

or

Find a media converter that will convert the .m4v videos to a format that QuickTime accepts. (Sorry, no experience with that).

If a media file doesn't open or play on your Mac, iPhone, or iPad - Apple Support

All the best :-)

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QuickTime/Preview won't play video files from server

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