How to convert a video to MP4 on your phone
Updated: November 10, 2026
Often the problem isn’t the file format but the codec: iPhones record in HEVC by default, which not every browser can play. Here’s how to record in a compatible format from the start and how to convert what you already have, all from your phone.
iPhone: record in a compatible format
- 1Open Settings → Camera → Formats.
- 2Choose “Most Compatible”. From then on videos are recorded in H.264, which plays everywhere.
- 3Keep in mind they’re a bit larger than with “High Efficiency”.
iPhone: convert a video you already recorded
- When sharing or exporting from many editing apps (iMovie, CapCut…), the video is saved in H.264.
- You can also use free converter apps from the App Store; look for ones that let you choose H.264 and MP4.
Android
- Most Android phones already record MP4 with H.264. If your camera has the HEVC/H.265 option on (sometimes called “save space”), turn it off in its settings.
- To convert, use an editor like CapCut: import the video and export it in 1080p.
- There are also free video converters on Google Play; pick one that supports MP4 + H.264 with no watermark.
Then upload it
From your phone you can upload the video straight to your Dembed dashboard in the browser: the upload resumes if your connection drops, and the link is ready to share.
Frequently asked questions
If it plays on your iPhone but not on a Windows computer or another phone, it’s almost certainly HEVC. Convert it or record in “Most Compatible”.