iPhone has limited native support for audio formats, causing frustration when trying to play certain audio files. Here are the formats that iPhone does NOT support natively:
When you encounter these formats, you'll typically see error messages like "Cannot play this file" or the audio simply won't appear in your Music app.
| Audio Format | iPhone Support | Recommended Solution |
|---|---|---|
| MP3 | Fully Supported | No conversion needed |
| AAC/M4A | Fully Supported | No conversion needed |
| WAV | Supported | Works but large file size |
| OGG | Not Supported | Convert to MP3 or AAC |
| WMA | Not Supported | Convert to MP3 or AAC |
| ALAC | Limited Support | iTunes/Music app only |
Choose the method that best fits your technical comfort level and specific needs.
Easiest solution - No software installation required
Install apps that support additional audio formats
Best for batch processing multiple files
Use 320kbps MP3 or 256kbps AAC for best balance of quality and file size
Convert multiple files at once to save time when dealing with large music libraries
Ensure song information and album art are preserved during conversion
Keep original high-quality files before converting for future use
Some audio files may be protected by Digital Rights Management (DRM). These files cannot be converted or played outside of authorized applications. This is common with older iTunes purchases and some streaming service downloads.