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iPod Q&A - Revised October 4, 2009
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What video formats do the video capable iPod models support?
With the latest firmware (see top for date updated), Apple reports that the video-capable iPods support:
H.264 video, up to 1.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Low-Complexity version of the H.264 Baseline Profile with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4, and .mov file formats
H.264 video, up to 2.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Baseline Profile up to Level 3.0 with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4, and .mov file formats
MPEG-4 video, up to 2.5 Mbps, 640 by 480 pixels, 30 frames per second, Simple Profile with AAC-LC audio up to 160 Kbps, 48kHz, stereo audio in .m4v, .mp4, and .mov file formats
Apple's website also notes that the video-capable iPods have an upgradable firmware that can support additional formats in the future.
How long does it take to format a movie for use on the iPod?
The short answer is a long time.
The always excellent iLounge published a feature article that demonstrates the average time to convert various movies to a format supported by the video-capable iPod models.
According to the website, for example, it took 10 hours and 11 minutes to convert a full-length movie (1 hour and 42 minutes) from MPEG-4 format (625X352) to H.264 video (320x179) for display on the iPod 5G/video using a Power Macintosh G5/2.0 DP (PCI-X). This example did not include the time required to "rip" a DVD.
As more modern computers are faster, the time required no doubt has shrunk somewhat and will continue to shrink in the future, but the time is substantial regardless.
How can I rip DVDs and transfer them to the iPod video?
Unlike CDs, which are generally not copy-protected, ripping DVDs is more time consuming, complicated, and may be illegal depending on the laws in your country. Please be sure to verify that your particular use is legal where you reside.
DiveIntoMark.org has posted an excellent tutorial on how to rip DVD movies to your iPod using free software.
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