Playing AVI files is one of the biggest worries for a Mac user. None of the four major Indeo codecs that are required to decode AVI files have been integrated into QuickTime. In some cases, even if the required codecs are available, the AVI video file does not play due to corruption. So, before we get to know how to play AVI files on Mac or how to fix AVI files that are not playing on Mac, let's get a quick look at Audio Video Interleave (AVI) format.
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If your AVI files are the typical AVI file type, encoded with a codec that QuickTime can't recognize, like DivX, XviD, you'll need to convert AVI to MOV or Mac OS compatible formats. And MOV is the most compatible format with QuickTime or other media player, so converting your AVI files to MOV can help you solve all the problems, then you can. For a Mac running Lion or Mountain Lion, converting AVI video to QuickTime is highly recommended. Solution 3: Play AVI with a AVI player Mac The VLC media player, is an excellent open-source media player that is known for supporting a wide range of audio and video files.
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Aiseesoft Free AVI Player for Mac can allow you to enjoy AVI video files with lossless quality on Mac. Apart from that, it enables you to play 4K videos and HD videos, including 1080P/1080i/720P.
What is an AVI file?
The full form of AVI is Audio Video Interleave. Like any video file format, AVI is a container format that defines how video data is packed into a file. Unlike other video formats, it does not predefine or specify the protocol or procedure involved while recording or creating a file. As an AVI file structure has the organizational format of streams and stream data, it is defined by two lists namely List Chunk and Index Chunk.
List Chunk: The list chunk has metadata, the size of the file, frame rates and audio/video information.
Index Chunk: Index chunk is responsible for saving the locations of data within the container.
Note: If any of these crucial chunks is missing in your AVI video file, then your AVI file will not play.
What is a Codec?
A codec that is short from for compressor and decompressor is responsible for decoding the video and audio tracks that have been encoded or packed in the .avi file.
It is to be noted that an AVI file or any video file does not come with codecs. Codecs are a part of the video player package like QuickTime.
However, if the codec used to encode the AVI file is not available in the QuickTime player, then your AVI file will not play. Thus, you can expand the codec library of the player by downloading the specific codec required to play the AVI video file.
Problems Associated With Running AVI on Mac Using QuickTime
When an AVI file is opened using QuickTime player, it scans the file to see which codecs have been used to encode the data in the container/AVI file.
The AVI format video will play as expected if the video and audio in codec are compressed using a codec that exists in the QuickTime package. Nevertheless, problems arise while playing AVI files on Mac when the codec does not exist in the library and leads to an unplayable AVI file on Mac. The file may also refuse to play if the AVI file is corrupt. Fix corrupt AVI files on Mac before trying any workaround.
Unplayable AVI Files Return The Following Errors:
- 'QuickTime is missing the software needed to perform this operation. Unfortunately, it is not available on the QuickTime server'
- 'You may experience problems playing a video track in 'file.avi' because the required compressor could not be found'
Additionally, the latest version QuickTime X does not have a few major codec's like Indeo or native DivX support and you might end up with the question 'How to play unplayable AVI file on Mac?'.
Now that you have understood the complications associated with AVI files that are unplayable on Mac, the following workarounds mentioned-below have been provided to help you fix unplayable AVI videos on Mac.
Methods to Fix Unplayable AVI files on Mac
Find the right codec to play AVI file on QuickTime:
Find the codec used to encode the file using QuickTime by opening the file using QuickTime and select Show Movie Info option from the Window menu.
The video file information is listed, and you will be able to find codec information after format properties. Check if the QuickTime version supports the codec that is listed in the video properties.
If you don't find the codec preinstalled with QuickTime, check on the QuickTime support site if the codec is supported by the player. If you don't find the respective codec or if it is an unsupportive codec, then your AVI video won't play. In case it is supported then you can go ahead and install the codec after downloading it from the author or the publisher's site.
Note: Download the codec from genuine and trusted sources to avoid compromising your system security.
Download and Install Standardized Video Encoders:
There are two major industry-standard codecs for Mac that can extend the playback capabilities. The following codecs have been referred to as the most preferred codecs that enable you to open .avi files on Mac:
- Install 3ivx D4 codec:
This codec enables greater video quality at lower file size values up to fifty percent when compared to the MPEG-4 standard designed by Apple. This decoder increases the efficiency of the video storage and transmission of files that are rendered too large.It is an integration of a huge set of video and audio codecs that allow playback of almost all the AVI files with AAC audio and video of MPEG-4.You can fix your unplayable AVI file by installing 3ivx D4 on your Mac. There is no longer a need for downloading any other components like plug-ins to play the AVI file unless a proprietary codec is used to encode the file. - Install DivX for Mac free codec to fix AVI files in Quick time:
While you can play the majority of AVI files after you install this free codec for Mac, its major disadvantage is that the audio sometimes might be distorted or only the video is played. For this reason, DivX codec for Mac is a secondary option when compared to 3ivx D4 codec.
Note: Only one among the above two codecs are to be used at once as they share the same set of library files to decode the video. Hence it is recommended to install only one codec to avoid malfunction of QuickTime player.
Use an Alternate player to Play AVI files on Mac:
VLC or Video LAN Client is a cross-platform media player that supports a wide variety of AVI video and audio codecs. Therefore, choosing VLC as an alternative media player to play the unplayable AVI file on Quick Time is one of the easiest ways.
Because of its large library of free encoding and decoding libraries, you will no longer need any additional codec download or proprietary plug-ins.
Play AVI Files By Converting Into QuickTime Supported MOV Files:
Another workaround to fix the unplayable AVI video on Mac is to convert the AVI file into a QuickTime supported file format like MOV.
Post conversion, the file is not only playable by Mac but also has improved the quality of audio and video. As most of the converters break the index of the AVI file while conversion, this method is least recommended. Lastly, if the converted video file stops playing halfway try AVI index repair on Mac.
Note: Have a copy of your AVI file before converting them to any other compatible format as your AVI file might get corrupt due to improper conversion and leads to permanent inaccessible AVI files.
AVI Still Not Playing In Mac?
If the AVI video file is unplayable even after updating the codecs or converting them to the MOV file, using a professional AVI video repair tool is suggested. Remo Repair AVI is the tool that you will be needing.
Remo Repair AVI fixes and works on a duplicate version of your original AVI file to prevent modification on the original file. The self-explanatory interface helps you to fix the video in just 3 clicks. Download the Remo Repair AVI tool now to fix your unplayable video and preview it for free before saving.
Remo Repair AVI Can Also:
- Repair AVI files that are corrupted
- Repair AVI files if their index is corrupted
- Repairs AVI files if there is no audio or playing only audio in the video file
Conclusion:
With the mentioned free workarounds or by using the above-mentioned AVI repair tool, you must have fixed your unplayable AVI videos on Mac. However, you can always make use of Remo Software's technical assistance team as they will guide you with the repairing process of the software if needed.
by Brian Fisher • Feb 26,2020 • Proven solutions
AVI video format is in use for a long time, but still, the format faces compatibility issues with a number of players. Here, the need for converting AVI to a more popular format as MP4 arises. To convert your files on your Mac system (macOS 10.7 to 10.15), a number of AVI to MP4 Mac tools are available. You can pick from a professional AVI to MP4 converter Mac, an online tool or a freeware depending on files to be converted and what features you want. An array of Mac AVI to MP4 programs are enlisted below.
Quicktime Download
Part 1. Best AVI to MP4 Converter Mac You Must Know
To convert AVI to MP4 on Mac, there is no dearth of options available, but choosing the right one becomes important to retain your original file quality. UniConverter is one such tool that meets your expectations of a professional conversion tool. The software is compatible with all latest and popular versions of Mac system (macOS 10.15 Catalina, 10.14 Mojave, 10.13 High Sierra, 10.12 Sierra and the earier versions).
With support to an array of format, conversion of all types including AVI to MP4 is supported. Files are converted without losing original quality and at fast speed. Additionally, you can personalize the videos using the built-in editor that support features like trimming, cropping, cutting, adding special effects, and others. UniConverter also supports file transfer to an array of devices which makes it easy to play your converted files on iPhone, Android, and an array of other devices. Additional features include video download, recording, and disc burning.
Get the Best AVI to MP4 Converter - UniConverter
- Convert AVI video to MP4 or to over 150 formats, including MP4, MOV, MKV, WMV, etc.
- It supports converting AVI to MP4 on Mac in batch process at 90X faster speed.
- Download online video from YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo and over 1000 video sharing sites.
- Edit, enhance and personalized your videos, including trim, crop,merge, rotate videos, add subtitles, etc.
- Versatile toolbox combines fix video metadata, GIF maker, cast video to TV, VR converter and screen recorder.
- Supported OS: Mac OS X 10.15, 10.14, 10.13, 10.12, 10.11, 10.10, 10.9, 10.8, 10.7, 10.6, Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista
How to Convert AVI Files to MP4 on Mac
Below are both video and step-by-step tutorial on AVI to MP4 Mac conversion for your guidance. If you're Windows user, please skip to How to Convert AVI to MP4 on Windows >> .
Step 1. Load AVI videos to iSkysoft video converter
Launch iSkysoft AVI to MP4 converter on your Mac and click on Add Files button from the Convert section to add the local AVI videos. Then you'd see the information and thumbnail images of the added AVI files appear on the primary interface.
Note: The best AVI to MP4 converter Mac/Windows supports batch convering, which enables you to convert multiple files or even a folder at a time. In addition, if you want to edit AVI video before conversion, just hit the editing icon under the thumbnail image to get video editing window.
Step 2. Choose MP4 as target format
On the top-right corner, drop-down options at Convert all tasks to section. The list of supported audio, video, and devices appears. Choose MP4 from the Video list (as the screenshot shows). There is an option for selecting the file resolution from the right side of the pop-up window.
Step 3. Mac convert AVI to MP4
Click on the Convert All button to start converting the added AVI files to MP4 format. That's it! Converting AVI files to MP4 on Mac using the AVI to MP4 converter tool is a simple and quick task.
Tips: If you want to customize the Mac location where saves the converted .mp4 file, you can go to the Output section in the bottom-left corner.
Part 2. How to Convert AVI to MP4 on Mac Free
Freeware software for converting AVI to MP4 free is good options to convert your video files without any internet dependency and file size limitation. These free to use tools works like professional software with a few drawbacks related to supported formats, and additional features. Know about the top AVI to MP4 converter Mac free tools.
1. Handbrake
Handbrake is a popularly used open source video transcoder that facilitates converting your AVI files to MP4 format in good quality. Almost all multimedia file formats and videos from DVD and Blu-ray discs can be converted to MP4 and MKV formats using the tool. Option for file customization by changing parameters like frame rate, bit rate, and others are available too. This free and multi-platform software also supports conversion to an array of device-specific pre-sets.
How to Change AVI to MP4 Mac using Handbrake:
Step 1. Download, install and launch Handbrake software on your Mac. On the top-left corner, click on the Source button to browse and add AVI file
Avi For Quicktime Mac Free
Step 2. Under Output Settings select MP4 as the target format. The Video tab further helps to edit and choose other file parameters.
Step 3. Select Mac location to save the processed file at the Destination location. Finally, click on the green Start button to free convert AVI to MP4 Mac.
2. QuickTime
QuickTime is a popular and default video player of the Mac system. In addition to playing an array of video formats, the players support a wide range of other functions as well including video conversion. The player can be used for converting popular video formats like MP4, AVI, MOV, and others. With QuickTime on your Mac, there is no need for installing any third party apps to get your files converted.
How to Free Convert AVI to MP4 Mac using QuickTime
Step 1. Run and open QuickTime player app on your Mac system. Add the AVI file to the app interface
Step 2. At Export As tab, choose file name and format desired for the output file.
However, if the codec used to encode the AVI file is not available in the QuickTime player, then your AVI file will not play. Thus, you can expand the codec library of the player by downloading the specific codec required to play the AVI video file.
Problems Associated With Running AVI on Mac Using QuickTime
When an AVI file is opened using QuickTime player, it scans the file to see which codecs have been used to encode the data in the container/AVI file.
The AVI format video will play as expected if the video and audio in codec are compressed using a codec that exists in the QuickTime package. Nevertheless, problems arise while playing AVI files on Mac when the codec does not exist in the library and leads to an unplayable AVI file on Mac. The file may also refuse to play if the AVI file is corrupt. Fix corrupt AVI files on Mac before trying any workaround.
Unplayable AVI Files Return The Following Errors:
- 'QuickTime is missing the software needed to perform this operation. Unfortunately, it is not available on the QuickTime server'
- 'You may experience problems playing a video track in 'file.avi' because the required compressor could not be found'
Additionally, the latest version QuickTime X does not have a few major codec's like Indeo or native DivX support and you might end up with the question 'How to play unplayable AVI file on Mac?'.
Now that you have understood the complications associated with AVI files that are unplayable on Mac, the following workarounds mentioned-below have been provided to help you fix unplayable AVI videos on Mac.
Methods to Fix Unplayable AVI files on Mac
Find the right codec to play AVI file on QuickTime:
Find the codec used to encode the file using QuickTime by opening the file using QuickTime and select Show Movie Info option from the Window menu.
The video file information is listed, and you will be able to find codec information after format properties. Check if the QuickTime version supports the codec that is listed in the video properties.
If you don't find the codec preinstalled with QuickTime, check on the QuickTime support site if the codec is supported by the player. If you don't find the respective codec or if it is an unsupportive codec, then your AVI video won't play. In case it is supported then you can go ahead and install the codec after downloading it from the author or the publisher's site.
Note: Download the codec from genuine and trusted sources to avoid compromising your system security.
Download and Install Standardized Video Encoders:
There are two major industry-standard codecs for Mac that can extend the playback capabilities. The following codecs have been referred to as the most preferred codecs that enable you to open .avi files on Mac:
- Install 3ivx D4 codec:
This codec enables greater video quality at lower file size values up to fifty percent when compared to the MPEG-4 standard designed by Apple. This decoder increases the efficiency of the video storage and transmission of files that are rendered too large.It is an integration of a huge set of video and audio codecs that allow playback of almost all the AVI files with AAC audio and video of MPEG-4.You can fix your unplayable AVI file by installing 3ivx D4 on your Mac. There is no longer a need for downloading any other components like plug-ins to play the AVI file unless a proprietary codec is used to encode the file. - Install DivX for Mac free codec to fix AVI files in Quick time:
While you can play the majority of AVI files after you install this free codec for Mac, its major disadvantage is that the audio sometimes might be distorted or only the video is played. For this reason, DivX codec for Mac is a secondary option when compared to 3ivx D4 codec.
Note: Only one among the above two codecs are to be used at once as they share the same set of library files to decode the video. Hence it is recommended to install only one codec to avoid malfunction of QuickTime player.
Use an Alternate player to Play AVI files on Mac:
VLC or Video LAN Client is a cross-platform media player that supports a wide variety of AVI video and audio codecs. Therefore, choosing VLC as an alternative media player to play the unplayable AVI file on Quick Time is one of the easiest ways.
Because of its large library of free encoding and decoding libraries, you will no longer need any additional codec download or proprietary plug-ins.
Play AVI Files By Converting Into QuickTime Supported MOV Files:
Another workaround to fix the unplayable AVI video on Mac is to convert the AVI file into a QuickTime supported file format like MOV.
Post conversion, the file is not only playable by Mac but also has improved the quality of audio and video. As most of the converters break the index of the AVI file while conversion, this method is least recommended. Lastly, if the converted video file stops playing halfway try AVI index repair on Mac.
Note: Have a copy of your AVI file before converting them to any other compatible format as your AVI file might get corrupt due to improper conversion and leads to permanent inaccessible AVI files.
AVI Still Not Playing In Mac?
If the AVI video file is unplayable even after updating the codecs or converting them to the MOV file, using a professional AVI video repair tool is suggested. Remo Repair AVI is the tool that you will be needing.
Remo Repair AVI fixes and works on a duplicate version of your original AVI file to prevent modification on the original file. The self-explanatory interface helps you to fix the video in just 3 clicks. Download the Remo Repair AVI tool now to fix your unplayable video and preview it for free before saving.
Remo Repair AVI Can Also:
- Repair AVI files that are corrupted
- Repair AVI files if their index is corrupted
- Repairs AVI files if there is no audio or playing only audio in the video file
Conclusion:
With the mentioned free workarounds or by using the above-mentioned AVI repair tool, you must have fixed your unplayable AVI videos on Mac. However, you can always make use of Remo Software's technical assistance team as they will guide you with the repairing process of the software if needed.
by Brian Fisher • Feb 26,2020 • Proven solutions
AVI video format is in use for a long time, but still, the format faces compatibility issues with a number of players. Here, the need for converting AVI to a more popular format as MP4 arises. To convert your files on your Mac system (macOS 10.7 to 10.15), a number of AVI to MP4 Mac tools are available. You can pick from a professional AVI to MP4 converter Mac, an online tool or a freeware depending on files to be converted and what features you want. An array of Mac AVI to MP4 programs are enlisted below.
Quicktime Download
Part 1. Best AVI to MP4 Converter Mac You Must Know
To convert AVI to MP4 on Mac, there is no dearth of options available, but choosing the right one becomes important to retain your original file quality. UniConverter is one such tool that meets your expectations of a professional conversion tool. The software is compatible with all latest and popular versions of Mac system (macOS 10.15 Catalina, 10.14 Mojave, 10.13 High Sierra, 10.12 Sierra and the earier versions).
With support to an array of format, conversion of all types including AVI to MP4 is supported. Files are converted without losing original quality and at fast speed. Additionally, you can personalize the videos using the built-in editor that support features like trimming, cropping, cutting, adding special effects, and others. UniConverter also supports file transfer to an array of devices which makes it easy to play your converted files on iPhone, Android, and an array of other devices. Additional features include video download, recording, and disc burning.
Get the Best AVI to MP4 Converter - UniConverter
- Convert AVI video to MP4 or to over 150 formats, including MP4, MOV, MKV, WMV, etc.
- It supports converting AVI to MP4 on Mac in batch process at 90X faster speed.
- Download online video from YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo and over 1000 video sharing sites.
- Edit, enhance and personalized your videos, including trim, crop,merge, rotate videos, add subtitles, etc.
- Versatile toolbox combines fix video metadata, GIF maker, cast video to TV, VR converter and screen recorder.
- Supported OS: Mac OS X 10.15, 10.14, 10.13, 10.12, 10.11, 10.10, 10.9, 10.8, 10.7, 10.6, Windows 10/8/7/XP/Vista
How to Convert AVI Files to MP4 on Mac
Below are both video and step-by-step tutorial on AVI to MP4 Mac conversion for your guidance. If you're Windows user, please skip to How to Convert AVI to MP4 on Windows >> .
Step 1. Load AVI videos to iSkysoft video converter
Launch iSkysoft AVI to MP4 converter on your Mac and click on Add Files button from the Convert section to add the local AVI videos. Then you'd see the information and thumbnail images of the added AVI files appear on the primary interface.
Note: The best AVI to MP4 converter Mac/Windows supports batch convering, which enables you to convert multiple files or even a folder at a time. In addition, if you want to edit AVI video before conversion, just hit the editing icon under the thumbnail image to get video editing window.
Step 2. Choose MP4 as target format
On the top-right corner, drop-down options at Convert all tasks to section. The list of supported audio, video, and devices appears. Choose MP4 from the Video list (as the screenshot shows). There is an option for selecting the file resolution from the right side of the pop-up window.
Step 3. Mac convert AVI to MP4
Click on the Convert All button to start converting the added AVI files to MP4 format. That's it! Converting AVI files to MP4 on Mac using the AVI to MP4 converter tool is a simple and quick task.
Tips: If you want to customize the Mac location where saves the converted .mp4 file, you can go to the Output section in the bottom-left corner.
Part 2. How to Convert AVI to MP4 on Mac Free
Freeware software for converting AVI to MP4 free is good options to convert your video files without any internet dependency and file size limitation. These free to use tools works like professional software with a few drawbacks related to supported formats, and additional features. Know about the top AVI to MP4 converter Mac free tools.
1. Handbrake
Handbrake is a popularly used open source video transcoder that facilitates converting your AVI files to MP4 format in good quality. Almost all multimedia file formats and videos from DVD and Blu-ray discs can be converted to MP4 and MKV formats using the tool. Option for file customization by changing parameters like frame rate, bit rate, and others are available too. This free and multi-platform software also supports conversion to an array of device-specific pre-sets.
How to Change AVI to MP4 Mac using Handbrake:
Step 1. Download, install and launch Handbrake software on your Mac. On the top-left corner, click on the Source button to browse and add AVI file
Avi For Quicktime Mac Free
Step 2. Under Output Settings select MP4 as the target format. The Video tab further helps to edit and choose other file parameters.
Step 3. Select Mac location to save the processed file at the Destination location. Finally, click on the green Start button to free convert AVI to MP4 Mac.
2. QuickTime
QuickTime is a popular and default video player of the Mac system. In addition to playing an array of video formats, the players support a wide range of other functions as well including video conversion. The player can be used for converting popular video formats like MP4, AVI, MOV, and others. With QuickTime on your Mac, there is no need for installing any third party apps to get your files converted.
How to Free Convert AVI to MP4 Mac using QuickTime
Step 1. Run and open QuickTime player app on your Mac system. Add the AVI file to the app interface
Step 2. At Export As tab, choose file name and format desired for the output file.
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Step 3. Click on the Export button to change AVI to MP4 Mac.
3. VLC Media Player
VLC needs no introduction when it comes to popular media players. This multi-format and multi-platform player, in addition to playing your files, also supports video conversion to popular formats. Bitrate, frame rate, and other file parameters can also be edited using the software. So for basic conversion needs VLC proves to be a good choice.
How VLC for Mac Convert AVI to MP4
Step 1. Launch VLC Media player app on your Mac system. Click Media > Convert/Save option. A new pop-up Open Media window opens from where click on the +Add button to browse and add AVI file to be converted.
Step 2. Again click on the Convert/Save button at the bottom and a new Convert window will open. Under the Settings section, enable Convert box and then select MP4 format the Profile tab.
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Step 3. At Destination file: section, choose system location to save the converted file. Finally, click on the Start button to convert AVI to MP4 Mac VLC.
Avi For Quicktime Mac
Convert AVI to MP4 Mac using one of the tools mentioned above. Considering features, limitations, speed, and file support, UniConverter is the best software for all types of video conversion and other requirements.
