Thankfully, there’s a workaround to open MKV files on an iPhone or iPad. The method is free, too. So, read on, as we’ll teach you how to play MKV videos on your iPhone or iPad.
Play MKV Files on an iPhone or iPad Using VLC
VLC is a free media player available on computers, but the developers also offer a mobile app on the App Store and Play Store. Like its desktop counterpart, the mobile app is also free, and you can download it from the App Store.
The VLC app supports many file formats, including MKV. Therefore, you can play MKV files on your iPhone or iPad anytime, anywhere, without the fuss of converting file types using additional third-party software.
Download: VLC media player (Free)
How to Play MKV Files Downloaded on Your iPhone or iPad
When you download a video on your iPhone or iPad, it saves to the Downloads folder in the Files app. Unfortunately, when you tap on an MKV video, you’ll only see a blank page showing the video title and file size.
So, after downloading the VLC app, follow these steps to play the MKV file on your iPhone or iPad:
Open the Files app and find your MKV video. Tap the Share icon (a square with an arrow coming out of it). Select the VLC app. Your MKV video will now start playing in the VLC app.
How to Share MKV Videos Between Your Computer, iPhone, and iPad
If you downloaded a video on your computer but wish to watch it on your iPhone or iPad, the fastest way is to share the video directly with the VLC app via Wi-Fi. Here’s how:
Connect both your iPhone (or iPad) and your computer to the same Wi-Fi network. In the VLC app on your iPhone or iPad, select the Network tab. Turn on Sharing via Wi-Fi. This generates a unique URL. In your computer’s web browser, type this URL in the search bar and press Enter. On the resulting webpage, click the Add (+) icon to add the video file. Once the loading bar hits 100%, the video is successfully added to your VLC playlist. On your iPhone or iPad, go to the Video tab. You can now watch your video on your mobile device.
Watch MKV Files Easily on Your iPhone or iPad
Although Apple’s default apps don’t support MKV video files, there’s no need to waste time converting them and risk affecting the video quality.
Using the VLC app, you can easily play your MKV files on your iPhone and iPad. But when downloading videos from the web, please ensure you’re not violating copyright laws!
