How to Transfer MKV Files to iPhone 8/7/6 and Other iOS Devices

Apple's iOS devices, including the iPhone 8, 7, and 6, support a limited range of video formats. This means direct playback of MKV files on these devices can be challenging. However, numerous methods exist to transfer and play MKV files on your iOS device. Follow these steps for seamless video playback.

Method 1: Convert MKV to MP4

To play MKV files on your iPhone, you must first convert them to a compatible format. The most popular and widely supported formats are MP4, MOV, and M4V, which are all encoded in the H.264 format. Here are the steps to convert your MKV files:

Use a Video Converter

Cloud-based and software-based converters are available. Here are two options:

Online Converters: Websites such as CloudConvert and Zamzar provide the ability to upload an MKV file and convert it to MP4. After conversion, you can download the MP4 file for use on your iPhone. Software Converters: Download video conversion software such as HandBrake or VLC Media Player. Open the MKV file in the software and select MP4 as the output format, then convert it.

Transfer to iPhone

To transfer the converted MP4 file to your iPhone, you can use:

Using iTunes Finder: If you are using a Mac running macOS Catalina or newer, you can use iTunes Finder to transfer the file directly to your iPhone. Third-party Apps: Use third-party apps like iMazing to transfer the file via file management services.

After completing the conversion and transfer, you can now play the converted video on your iPhone using the native or third-party video player.

Method 2: Use a File Management App

Another approach is to use a file management app that supports MKV files:

Download Apps: Download apps like VLC for Mobile or Infuse from the App Store. These apps can play MKV files directly. Transfer the MKV File: Use iTunes Finder or cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox to upload the MKV file to the app. For iTunes Finder: Connect your iPhone, select it in iTunes Finder, and transfer the file via the app.

Method 3: Use Cloud Storage

Using cloud storage services is another convenient method:

Upload to Cloud: Upload the MKV file to a cloud service like Google Drive, Dropbox, or OneDrive. Access on iPhone: Install the corresponding app on your iPhone and download or stream the MKV file directly from the cloud.

Summary and Additional Information

While the native video player on iOS does not directly support MKV files, you can easily convert and play them using the above methods. Choose the method that best suits your needs. For users of newer iOS devices like the iPhone 12 Pro Max, 12 Pro, and others, the process remains the same—convert MKV to MP4 or MOV and then play it using a third-party media player or a compatible app.

Additional Recommendations: DumboFab Video Converter is a top-tier conversion tool that supports a wide range of formats including MKV. It provides basic editing features such as trimming, cropping, rotation, and adding effects.