How to Convert M4P to MP3 (2026 Updated Guide)
If you are trying to convert M4P to MP3, you are not alone. M4P is a protected audio format used by older iTunes Store purchases and by Apple Music streaming downloads. Because of Apple’s DRM (Digital Rights Management), M4P files cannot be played on many devices or converted directly using normal audio converters.
This guide explains what M4P files are and why they won’t convert. We also share how to convert local M4P files and Apple Music tracks to MP3. By the end, you will know exactly which tool solves your problem and how to convert your audio files quickly and safely.
Contents Guide Part 1: What Is an M4P File?Part 2: How to Convert Local M4P Files to MP3?Part 3: How to Convert Apple Music Tracks to MP3?Part 4: FAQ: Converting M4P to MP3Part 5: In Summary
Part 1: What Is an M4P File?
M4P (“MPEG-4 Protected”) is a DRM-protected audio format used by Apple. It appears in two main scenarios:
1. Old iTunes Store Purchased Songs
Before 2009, songs purchased from iTunes Store were delivered as M4P files with FairPlay DRM.
2. Apple Music Tracks
Apple Music also uses DRM protection. These tracks are not stored as .m4p files, but they are equally locked and non-convertible without a specialized DRM-removal tool.
Because the file is protected, you cannot convert M4P to MP3 through common converters, VLC, iTunes, or online services. A dedicated DRM-removal tool is required.
So, before converting, identify where your M4P (or protected audio) comes from.
Part 2: How to Convert Local M4P Files to MP3?
If you have an actual .m4p file on disk (from old iTunes), you must use DumpMedia Any Music Converter. Any Music Converter includes a Format Converter module that supports M4P to MP3 conversion.
Key Capabilities
- Converts local audio files to MP3, M4A, AAC, WAV, etc.
- Supports M4P and other protected formats (depending on DRM conditions)
- Offers batch conversion for multiple files
- Provides customizable output settings: bitrate, sample rate, channels
- User-friendly drag-and-drop interface
- Paid feature for advanced or DRM-related conversions
How to Convert Local M4P Files to MP3
Step 1. Open Any Music Converter and go to the Format Converter module.
Step 2. Drag and drop the M4P files into the interface.
Step 3. Choose MP3 as the output format
Step 4. Click Convert to process the files. Your M4P files will be exported as MP3.
Part 3: How to Convert Apple Music Tracks to MP3?
If your target audio comes from Apple Music, the easiest way to convert it to MP3 is with DumpMedia Apple Music Converter. DumpMedia Apple Music Converter can remove DRM from Apple Music tracks and convert songs to MP3, M4A, AAC, FLAC, and more. Also, it can preserve original quality while converting. DumpMedia supports batch conversion to save your time!
Good News: Apple Music Converter has now been integrated into our new software, Any Music Converter. The new software integrates all the previous Apple Music conversion features while expanding support to multiple streaming platforms, offering more output formats, and improved performance.
How to Convert Apple Music Songs to MP3
Follow these steps to convert M4P to MP3:
Step 1. Open the program and allow it to load your Apple Music library. You can choose individual tracks or multiple playlists.
Step 2. Choose MP3 and adjust bitrate, sample rate, and output folder if needed.
Step 3. Click Convert. The DRM will be removed, and the files will be saved in MP3 format.
Part 4: FAQ: Converting M4P to MP3
1. Why can’t I convert M4P to MP3 directly?
Because M4P is protected by Apple’s DRM. Regular converters cannot decrypt it.
2. Can iTunes convert M4P to MP3?
No. iTunes no longer offers MP3 conversion for DRM-protected files.
3. Is converting M4P to MP3 legal?
It is generally allowed for personal use, but laws vary by region.
4. Can online converters handle M4P?
No. Online tools cannot process DRM-protected files.
Part 5: In Summary
To successfully convert M4P to MP3, you must first identify whether your protected audio file comes from old iTunes purchases or from Apple Music. Local M4P files require a dedicated format-conversion tool such as Any Music Converter, which can process existing M4P files and export them as MP3.
In contrast, Apple Music tracks need a specialized DRM-removal solution. This is where DumpMedia Apple Music Converter delivers the best results, allowing users to convert Apple Music songs into high-quality MP3 files with ease. By choosing the correct tool for your specific file type, you can ensure a smooth, reliable conversion process and enjoy your music freely across all devices.
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