iPad/iPhone/PC/Mac compatible file

Hi,

I've got a client who wants a file that's compatible with the above and I was wondering if anyone had suggestions of what (if any) file is going to be compatible on those devices AND mac/pcs within a web browser? I'm imagining MP4 but there are different types of MP4 and I've had issues in the past with PC playback.

Via Compressor, the "Broadband High" preset, H.264 at 5Mbps. Will give you a .mp4 file that will be very compatible with PC's, but not the best quality for iPhones/iPads. The two are very different. I'd make two different files for each. Use the Apple TV preset in the Share menu for iPhone/iPad/ATV use to get the best quality.

Now, you COULD do this, which I've had good success with. Share > Apple Devices, click Show Details, then check off "Apple TV" and "Mac & PC" for your "Sizes". Be sure "Encode for" is set to "More Compatibility", which makes it more Windows friendly. "Compression" of course should be set for "Better Quality".

This will give you 2 files, one for your iOS devices, and one for playback on computers. And that is what you want, not one that will do both as that will be a problem.

Wow. Cheers Ben, that's terrific. I figured I may have to go with 2 files.

I'd go with the Share option, faster, easier. Let us know how it works out.

Although the Compressor method will give you more PC compatibility theoretically, but I'd test out the Share option first.