Microsoft and Apple Video Formats

• Microsoft Windows Media Player 12 (WMP 12) supports 3GP, AVCHD, MPEG-4 and WMV video formats -- but it only works on Windows 7. It also plays most AVI, DIVX, MOV and XVID files. Users of older Windows operating systems are restricted to ASF, WM, WX, WMP, WM, AVI and WAV, some of which are no longer produced. Apple computer owners use the QuickTime format to play videos and iTunes provides support for MOV, H.264 and MPEG-4.
  
  

Out of the Box

• Without any manipulation, WMP 12 and iTunes QuickTime will play MPEG-4 and MOV files. However, there's one caveat -- digital rights management, or DRM. Video files protected by a DRM codec will not play on WMP12 without some conversion or modification. The files will play on QuickTime. There's some gray area as to the legality of removing DRM protection: if the person doing so is making a copy for his own personal use, it is legal. Sharing a video with others is illegal.
  
  

Video Converters

• A fair number of software companies produce converters that claim to make nearly any video file playable on both WMP and QuickTime. Browsing user reviews on forums devoted to the topic can be useful in deciding which program, if any, to download. Many software developers offer a free trial version of their product with limited features. Some applications, like WinFF, are freeware and simply ask for a donation to the developer.
  
  

What's Best for You

• If you are a Windows user and have not yet upgraded to Windows 7, upgrading is the only way to get the WMP 12 version that plays two of the three video files compatible with Apple iTunes. If this is your only reason for considering an upgrade, it might be less costly to purchase a software converter. If you are an Apple user, you may find that much of the work of converting non-compatible videos has been done for you. Check the Apple iTunes forums to discover the location of WMV and WMA file conversions. Most are also available through iTunes vendors.