[3 Ways] How to Play WMA Files on iPhone/iPad

iPhone doesn’t support WMA files? You may need this guide to learn about how to play WMA files on iPhone in three simple and effective ways, prevent you from missing any music files on iPhone.

Demi by Demi Updated October 23, 2023
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The iOS devices are among the most popular and versatile mobile devices available today, thanks to their user-friendly design and an extensive range of features. However, when it comes to audio file compatibility, Apple's iOS devices have their limitations. One such limitation is the inability to play Windows Media Audio (WMA) files directly. So, how do you play WMA files on iPhone, iPad, and iPod? The short answer is no. But worry not; we've got you covered!

play wma files on iphone

In this article, we will explore three effective ways to play WMA files on your iPhone, iPad, and iPod. You can choose to convert WMA files to MP3

Whether you're a tech-savvy user or just starting, there's a solution for you.

Way 1. How to play WMA files on iPhone with iTunes

iTunes is not only a media management tool, but also a nice helper to convert WMA to MP3 format, which means you can sync converted files to your iPhone using iTunes. However, syncing files to iPhone via iTunes will delete the existing files from iPhone. If you don’t mind, follow the steps below to make it.

Step 1. Convert WMA files to MP3
You may need to add the WMA files to your iTunes library first if they are not in iTunes library. Follow the steps below to add and convert WMA files to MP3 in iTunes.

• Launch iTunes > Click Files on the iTunes top menu > Click Add File to Library to add WMA music to iTunes library.

add files to library

• Click Edit > Choose Preferences > From the prompt window, choose General.

• Click Import Settings > Click the box next to Import Using and choose MP3 Encoder > Click OK to save the changes.

choose mp3 encoder

• On your music library, select the WMA songs you just added > Go to File > Convert > Create MP3 Version. Then, the converted MP3 songs will be displayed next to the original WMA files.

create mp3 version

Step 2. Sync converted MP3 to iPhone
After converting WMA files, you can now transfer iTunes music from iTunes to iPhone/iPad/iPod as you used to do.

• Connect your iPhone to computer, and click the phone tab when detecting > Click Music icon.

• Check Sync Music and select the converted MP3 > Click Apply to start the syncing process.

sync music to iPhone

Way 2. How to convert and transfer WMA files to iPhone [Faster & Simpler]

The process of converting and syncing WMA files to iPhone via iTunes is kind of complicated and has the risk of losing data. To make the whole process simpler, we suggest you convert WMA files via Windows Media Player, and transfer converted WMA files to iPhone using FoneTool, a powerful data transfer tool for iOS. Here are simple steps you can follow.

Step 1. Convert WMA files with Windows Media Player
• Import WMA files to Windows Media Player > In Windows Media Player, click Organize > Choose Options...

windows media player options

• From the window popping up, click Rip Music > Scroll down and click Change > Select a destination folder for converted file.

• Click Format > From the drop-down menu, scroll down and choose MP3. you can also change the bitrate of the audio as you like.

convert to mp3

Step 2. Transfer converted WMA files to iPhone via FoneTool
FoneTool enables you to preview and transfer selected songs as per your needs and all content on your iPhone will remain 100% safe.

• Download and install FoneTool by clicking the download button below > Launch FoneTool > Connect your iPhone to computer via cable.

Download FreewareWin 11/10/8.1/8/7/XP
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• After FoneTool recognizes your device, choose Phone Transfer > Go to PC to iPhone and click Start Transfer.

go to transfer

• Select the Music icon > Drag and drop the songs to the box, or you can click the box to locate the folder that stores your songs.

select music

• Finally, click Start Transfer. Your songs will be transferred to Apple Music app.

start transfer music

As you can see from the screenshot, FoneTool also supports data transfer from iPhone to PC. It can help you transfer music, and other types of files from iPhone to computer.

Way 3. How to play WMA songs on iPhone using 3rd-party apps

If you want to play WMA files on your iPhone, you can use third-party player apps that support various audio formats, including WMA. However, using such apps can be inconvenient because you won't be able to manage and listen to all your songs in one place. If this bothers you, it's a good idea to convert your WMA files to MP3 before transferring them to your iPhone. This way, you can have all your songs in a single format and manage them more efficiently.

Third-party apps like VLC for Mobile, Documents by Readdle, and Foobar2000 provide a convenient and user-friendly solution for playing WMA files on your iPhone without the need for conversion or renaming. They also offer additional features and customization options for your audio playback experience.

Conclusion

While Apple Music doesn't natively support WMA files, you have several effective ways to enjoy your WMA tracks on your iPhone or iPad. Whether you choose to convert your files using iTunes, Windows Media Player, or use third-party apps, the key is to find the method that best suits your needs and preferences.

With these options at your disposal, you can continue to enjoy your favorite music on your iOS device, regardless of the file format.

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