How do I download MP4 on iPhone?

How do I download MP4 on iPhone?
I often find myself needing to save MP4 videos directly to my iPhone, but I always seem to run into obstacles. Whether it’s compatibility issues or the lack of a straightforward feature in the default applications, the process feels incredibly cumbersome. I’ve tried using various apps, but each one seems to have its own set of challenges and limitations. I’m looking for a reliable method that simplifies the entire process without running into constant roadblocks. What are the common methods others have used successfully to download MP4 videos on their iPhones? And equally important, are there specific settings or permissions I might need to adjust on my device?
6 Answers

Another easy solution is to use cloud services like Google Drive or Dropbox. Here’s how it’s done:
1. Upload the MP4 file to Google Drive or Dropbox from your computer.
2. Download the Google Drive or Dropbox app on your iPhone, if you don’t already have it.
3. Open the app and sign in to your account.
4. Locate the MP4 file and tap on it to download locally.
5. You can then either watch it directly within the app or save it to your camera roll for offline viewing.
This method is particularly useful if you need to access your videos across multiple devices.

I sometimes use a more technical yet effective approach involving VLC media player for iOS:
1. Download VLC from the App Store.
2. On your computer, open a web browser, and google ‘VLC iOS WiFi Upload.’
3. Follow the instructions to set up WiFi upload.
4. Transfer the MP4 file from your computer to your iPhone using this WiFi upload feature.
5. Once transferred, you can access the MP4 file in the VLC app on your iPhone.
This is particularly handy if you need to manage multiple videos and format compatibility.

I’ve found that using the MyMedia app is an excellent way to download MP4 files on my iPhone. Here’s how I do it:
1. Install the MyMedia app from the App Store.
2. Open the app and tap on the browser tab.
3. Navigate to the website that has the MP4 video.
4. Tap on the download link, and MyMedia will prompt you to start downloading.
5. After the download completes, go to the Media tab.
6. Here you can play the MP4 or save it to your camera roll by tapping on the file and selecting ‘Save to Camera Roll.’
This app acts like a file manager, making it easier to manage and access downloaded files.

When I need to download MP4s to my iPhone, I prefer using a combination of Safari and Shortcuts. Here’s my method:
1. Create a Shortcut that uses the ‘Download File’ action. Alternatively, search for existing shortcuts online tailored for video downloads.
2. Open Safari and find the MP4 video you wish to download.
3. Click the share button in Safari and select the Shortcut you created.
4. The Shortcut will then download the MP4 file directly to your iPhone.
5. Usually, files are stored in the Files app under iCloud Drive or on your device.
This method utilizes native iOS functionalities, keeping everything within the ecosystem.

Using an online download service through Safari is another convenient method I use:
1. Open Safari and go to an online downloader like SaveFrom.net.
2. Paste the URL of the MP4 video you want to download.
3. Click the download button.
4. You’ll be prompted to download the video. Confirm and wait for it to download.
5. Open the Files app and find the downloaded MP4 in the Downloads folder.
This approach doesn’t require additional apps and keeps the process simple.

To download MP4 on your iPhone, I use Documents by Readdle. Here’s what I do:
1. Download and install the Documents by Readdle app from the App Store.
2. Open the app and tap on the browser icon at the bottom.
3. Use the built-in browser to navigate to the site that hosts the MP4 you want to download.
4. Find the MP4 file and tap the download button.
5. Documents will ask where you want to save the file. Save it to the Downloads folder or create a new folder.
6. Once downloaded, you can view the MP4 file within the Documents app.
This method works well for various sites, and it keeps your downloads organized within the app.