.wma

Windows Media Audio

File Extension Details

16

Searches

Audio

What is a .wma file?

Windows Media Audio (WMA) is an audio data compression technology developed by Microsoft. It encompasses a family of audio codecs and their corresponding audio coding formats. WMA was designed as a competitor to the popular MP3 format. It offers various versions, including WMA Standard, WMA Pro, WMA Lossless, and WMA Voice, each tailored for different audio quality and compression needs. WMA Standard is a lossy codec intended for general-purpose audio encoding, while WMA Pro offers higher quality audio at lower bitrates, supporting multi-channel audio and higher sampling rates. WMA Lossless provides bit-for-bit identical audio reproduction, sacrificing compression efficiency for perfect audio fidelity. WMA Voice is optimized for speech encoding, making it suitable for voice recordings and dictation. WMA files are typically stored with the .wma extension and can be played back on a wide range of devices and software, especially those running Windows operating systems. However, cross-platform support has improved over time, with many media players on other operating systems also supporting WMA playback.

.wma File

Windows Media Audio

Compatible Software Alternatives

16

Searches

Audio

Category

Software Compatibility

Programs that can open and work with .wma files

Windows

Compatible Applications

Windows Media Player

Compatible

VLC Media Player

Compatible

Foobar2000

Compatible

MediaMonkey

Compatible

macOS

Compatible Applications

VLC Media Player

Compatible

Elmedia Player

Compatible

iTunes (limited support)

Compatible

Audacity

Compatible

Linux

Compatible Applications

VLC Media Player

Compatible

Audacity

Compatible

Rhythmbox

Compatible

Amarok

Compatible

Mobile

Mobile Applications

VLC Mobile

Compatible

Poweramp

Compatible

MX Player

Compatible

Windows Media Player (Android)

Compatible

Alternative File Formats

Similar formats you can consider

Alternative format for .wma files

Alternative format for .wma files

Alternative format for .wma files

Alternative format for .wma files

Alternative format for .wma files

Related Categories

Related Files

View All Audio Files

Frequently Asked Questions

About .wma Files

To open a .wma file, you need compatible software. Here are some options:

Windows Media Player
VLC Media Player
VLC Mobile

Check the "Software Compatibility" section above for a complete list of programs that can open .wma files on different operating systems.

To convert a .wma file to another format, you can:

Use compatible software: Many programs that open .wma files also allow saving or exporting to different formats. For example, you might try using Windows Media Player or VLC Media Player.
Try online conversion services: Websites like Zamzar, CloudConvert, or Online-Convert can transform files between formats without installing software.
Convert to recommended alternatives: For .wma files, consider converting to .mp3, .aac, .ogg for better compatibility.
Specialized conversion tools: Search for ".wma converter" to find tools specifically designed for this file type.

Note: Converting files may result in some loss of formatting, quality, or functionality depending on the compatibility between formats.

If you're having trouble opening a .wma file, try these troubleshooting steps:

Verify the file extension is correct: Sometimes files may be incorrectly named. Make sure the file truly is a .wma file.
Update your software: Ensure you're using the latest version of your chosen program.
Try alternative software: If one program doesn't work, try another from our compatibility list.
Check for file corruption: The file might be damaged. Try to obtain a new copy if possible.
Look for file converters: Converting to a more common format might help.

Like any file type, .wma files can be safe or potentially risky depending on their source:

From trusted sources: Files from reputable websites, colleagues, or friends are generally safe.
From unknown sources: Exercise caution with files from unfamiliar websites or emails.

Safety recommendations:

Always scan files with antivirus software before opening them
Keep your operating system and applications updated
Be particularly cautious with executable file types

Common issues with .wma files include:

Compatibility problems: Older or newer versions of software may not fully support certain .wma files
Missing elements: Fonts, media, or other components may not transfer correctly between systems
File corruption: Incomplete downloads or transfer errors can damage files
Format variations: Different software may implement the .wma format in slightly different ways

If you're experiencing issues with a specific .wma file, you might need to:

Try opening it with alternative software
Ask the file creator to save it in a different format
Look for specific patches or updates for your software

Chat with AI About .wma Files

💡 Suggested questions: