Best Ways to Play MKV Files on iPhone Without Playback Issues

MKV is a popular standard video file format that can store high-quality videos, multiple audio tracks, and subtitles in one file. Many people use it because it keeps videos clear and detailed. But here is the problem: iPhones do not support MKV by default.

Imagine downloading an MKV movie on your iPhone, excited to watch it, only to find out it would not play. You tap the file, but all you see is a blank screen. Frustrating, right? That is why many people ask, "Is it possible to play MKV on iPhone?"

In this post, we will answer that question and show you simple ways to play MKV on an iPhone without hassle. Whether you want to use a media player or convert the file, we have you covered!

Part 1: Does iPhone Play MKV

Can the iPhone play MKV? No, iPhones do not play MKV files by default. The built-in video player on iPhones only supports formats like MP4, MOV, and M4V. MKV files use a different format that iPhones cannot read without extra help.

To play MKV on an iPhone, you need a third-party application. Some applications, like VLC or Infuse, can open MKV files without converting them. If you do not want to install an application, you must change the MKV file into a format the iPhone supports. Many video converters can do this.

So, if you try to open an MKV on an iPhone, it will not work unless you use the correct application or convert the file.

Part 2: How to Play MKV Files on iPhone

Trying to play an MKV file on an iPhone can be frustrating. iPhones do not support MKV, so the video will not open. You might think you need a complex tool or technical skills, but that is untrue.

With AVAide Video Converter, you can turn MKV to MP4 or MOV in one click. No experience is needed. The steps are easy to follow, and the program works on Windows and Mac. Before converting, you can even fine-tune video settings like resolution, bitrate, and clarity. The tool keeps the original clarity and processes videos fast.

Without a doubt, AVAide Video Converter can help you watch MKV files on your iPhone without issues. Once converted to a supported format, your video will play smoothly.

Step 1First, download the AVAide Video Converter. Choose the correct version for your computer. If you use Windows, get the Windows version. If you have a Mac, download the Mac version. After downloading, open the file and follow the steps to install it.

Step 2Open AVAide Video Converter and ensure you are in the Converter section. Hit the Add Files or Big + buttons to load your MKV files. Fortunately, you can convert multiple videos at once.

Step 3Head to the Format drop-down menu on the right side of your imported MKV file. A list of formats will appear. Under the Video section, choose MP4 or MOV since they work on iPhones.

Step 4You can also tweak output settings if needed. To do that, simply click the Cogwheel button. You can tweak the Resolution, Encoder, Bitrate, and Frame Rate under Video settings. You can also fine-tune the Channel, Encoder, Bitrate, and Sample Rate under the Audio settings. Once settled, hit the Create New button to save your created settings.

Step 5Before converting, select where to save your converted output by clicking the Save to option. After the conversion, it would be easy for you to locate it. Finally, click the Convert All button to start the conversion process. AVAide Video Converter uses fast technology to speed up the process.

Once the conversion is done, the converted output will be saved on your computer. Find it in your selected folder. Then, transfer it to your iPhone and start watching without issues.

With AVAide Video Converter, watching MKV on an iPhone is easy. It lets you convert MKV to MP4, MOV, AVI, and many other video formats. It works fast and keeps the video quality high. Just convert, transfer, and enjoy your video without hassle!

Part 3: How to Play MKV on iPhone Without Converting

It is really possible to play MKV on an iPhone without converting them. You just need the right media player, like VLC.

VLC is a free media player made for computers, but the developers also created a mobile iPhone application. You can download it from the App Store at no cost. This player supports many file formats, including MKV. With VLC, you can watch MKV videos on your iPhone anytime, anywhere, without needing to convert the files or install an extra program.

When you download a video on your iPhone, it gets saved in the Downloads folder inside the Files application. But if the video is in MKV format, tapping on it would not play the video. Instead, you will only see a blank screen with the file name and size. For that reason, you need to use VLC to play your MKV file without issues.

After installing the VLC, follow these steps to learn how to play MKV on an iPhone without converting:

Step 1Open the Files application on your iPhone and go to the Downloads folder.

Step 2Find your MKV video and tap on it once. It will show the file details but will not play.

Step 3Tap the Share button (a small square with an arrow pointing up).

Step 4From the options, scroll down and select VLC.

Step 5The VLC application will open instantly, and your MKV video will play without problems.

Playing MKV files on an iPhone with VLC is super easy, right? You do not need to convert anything; just open and play the file. But if you want to try other players, there are VLC alternatives that can also play MKV files smoothly. These tools let you watch your videos without any hassle!

By Jane Pineda on Jun 09, 2025