Why does itunes convert my H.264 MP4 into an M4V

[ryeguy_24]

I thought the ipod could play an H.264 MP4. Although, when I bring that type of video into itunes, it must first convert it to an m4v for the ipod. Why does it do this? Is there a way ffmpeg can encode H.264 and encapsulate in m4v? Appreciate the help. Happy new year.

[ssj2_goha]

A m4v is a mp4 file just with a a different extension. It's one of apple's little oddities.

[geowharton]

Yes, Apples little oddity. This "oddity" allows your Ipod to differentiate between "movies" and "video podcasts" and such. If you load the video into your Ipod with the .MP4 suffix, the Ipod will list the video under movies in the Ipod menues.