The iPhone records audio files in the “.m4a” file format. This format is commonly used for audio-only files and is a variation of the MPEG-4 container format. The “.m4a” extension indicates that the audio is compressed using either the Advanced Audio Coding (AAC) codec or the Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC).
The use of the MPEG-4 container format allows for efficient compression of audio data while maintaining relatively high audio quality. This is especially important for mobile devices like the iPhone, as it allows for smaller file sizes without significant loss in sound quality.
The AAC codec is widely used for compressing audio files and is known for its ability to provide good audio quality at lower bit rates. It is a lossy compression algorithm, which means that some audio data is discarded during the compression process. However, the level of audio quality degradation is generally considered to be minimal and not easily perceptible to the average listener.
On the other hand, the Apple Lossless Audio Codec (ALAC) is a lossless compression algorithm. This means that it retains all the original audio data during the compression process, resulting in a bit-for-bit identical representation of the original audio. ALAC is ideal for those who prioritize audio fidelity and want to preserve the highest possible audio quality.
The choice between AAC and ALAC compression depends on the user’s preferences and priorities. If file size is a concern, AAC compression may be preferred as it can achieve smaller file sizes without significant loss in audio quality. However, if audio fidelity is of utmost importance, ALAC compression would be the better choice as it preserves the original audio data without any loss.
It’s worth noting that the specific codec used for compression may vary depending on the settings chosen by the user or the default settings of the recording app. However, the most common codecs used for audio recording on the iPhone are AAC and ALAC.
In my personal experience, I have found the audio quality of recordings made on the iPhone using the AAC codec to be quite satisfactory for everyday use. The compressed files are small in size, making it convenient for sharing and storing. However, when I wanted to preserve the highest possible audio quality for professional purposes, I have opted for using the ALAC codec instead. This ensured that there was no loss in audio fidelity, albeit at the cost of larger file sizes.
The “.m4a” file format used by the iPhone for recording audio provides a good balance between file size and audio quality. Whether you choose AAC or ALAC compression depends on your specific needs and priorities regarding file size and audio fidelity.