M4P File Documentation

Overview

Feature Value
Format Type M4P (iTunes Music Store Audio File)
File Extension .m4p
MIME Type audio/mp4
Developed by Apple Inc.
Copy Protection Yes (FairPlay DRM)
Audio Codec AAC (Advanced Audio Coding)
Streaming Supported via QuickTime
Compression Lossy
Maximum Bitrate 256 kbps (standard), though higher for some purchases
Sample Rate Up to 48 kHz
Channels Stereo or Mono
Encryption AES algorithm
Primary Use Digital music distribution (purchased via iTunes Store)
Playable in iTunes Yes, until Apple Music conversion
Conversion Can be converted to non-DRM formats (e.g., MP3, AAC) via Apple Music
Accessibility Playable only on authorized devices/accounts
File Size Varies, generally smaller than lossless formats
Metadata Support ID3 tags for track information
Operating Systems Compatible with OS supporting iTunes/Apple Music