Codecs

How to play ALAC (Apple Lossless) files without buying a codec

ALAC (Apple Lossless) is an audio codec — the way the sound is compressed. You find it inside .m4a, .mp4 files.

Updated 2026-11-11

At a glance

Also calledApple Lossless
Found inside.m4a, .mp4

Why it doesn’t play

ALAC (Apple Lossless) plays only sometimes: Windows needs paid or extra extensions for some codecs, and browsers skip many of them. That is why one ALAC (Apple Lossless) file plays and the next shows a black screen or no sound.

Where it plays

PlayAnyVideo (web, Windows, Android)Plays
Chrome / Edge on their ownSometimes / paid extension
Windows Movies & TV / Media PlayerSometimes / paid extension

Play it free with PlayAnyVideo

  1. 1

    Open the PlayAnyVideo player in your browser — nothing to install — and drop the file in. Files never leave your device.

  2. 2

    If the browser can’t decode it, the built-in universal engine (open-source, LGPL) takes over automatically.

  3. 3

    For the heaviest files (4K/8K HEVC, DTS, TrueHD) install the free Windows app: it converts on the fly with your graphics card and plays everything.

  4. 4

    On Android, choose “Open with → PlayAnyVideo” from your file manager or messenger.

FAQ

Is it really free?

Yes. PlayAnyVideo has no ads, no paid codecs and no locked features.

Is my ALAC (Apple Lossless) file uploaded anywhere?

No. Playback happens on your own device; local files are never sent to a server.

Do I need a codec pack?

No. Codec packs can break other players and often bundle adware. PlayAnyVideo brings its own decoders.

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