Did you know that you can still play Real Media files? Even though they're not as popular as they once were, you can still play them using the right tools. So, how do you play RM files, and can you convert RM files to other formats?

What Is a Real Media (.RM) File?

Real Media files were developed by RealNetworks and were a popular format for streaming audio and video in the late 1990s and early 2000s. They were often used for live broadcasts, such as news or sporting events. RM files are encoded with the RealAudio or RealVideo codecs, which are proprietary to RealNetworks.

How to Play RM Files

photo of lady leaning on old tv

Playing RM files is a tricky process depending on the device you're using. If you have a computer, the best way to play RM files is to use VLC media player. VLC is a free and open-source cross-platform multimedia player that supports a wide range of audio and video formats.

If you're using a mobile device, there are unfortunately no apps that can play RM files. The only way to play them is to use a file converter to convert the RM file to another format, such as MP4 or AVI.

Converting Real Media Files Into Other Formats

There are a number of ways to convert Real Media files into another format. One way is to use an online file converter, such as Cloud Convert or Convertio. These services allow you to upload your RM file and then select the output format you want, such as MPG, WMV, or AVI. Once the file has been converted, you can then download it and play it on your desired device.

Another way to convert Real Media files is to use file conversion software, such as Handbrake or Any Video Converter.

How to Convert Real Media Files to MP4 Using Cloud Convert

Converting Real Media files to MP4 is quite simple. Here's a step-by-step guide using an online file converter.

  1. Head to CloudConvert
  2. Click Select File and select the Real Media file you want to convert
  3. Click the downward-pointing arrow and select MP4 as the output format
  4. Hit the Convert button.
  5. Once the conversion is complete, click on the Download button to download the file.

You can now play the file on any device that supports MP4 playback.

Can You Convert a Real Media File and Upload It to YouTube?

Yes, you can actually convert a Real Media file and upload it to YouTube. YouTube recommends you use the MP4 format for best results. To convert your Real Media file into this format, use any of the methods or programs listed above.

Once you have converted your Real Media file into MP4 format, you can then upload it to YouTube the way you normally would.

There's Still a Lot of Life Left in RM Files

Even though Real Media files are not as popular as they once were, there's still a lot of life left in these RM files. With the right tools and know-how, you can still play and convert Real Media files into other formats.