How-to · Local files
Play MKV files on your iPhone.
iPhone cannot open an MKV file on its own. 4789 can. Import the file once, and it plays with hardware decoding, subtitle switching, and resume.
Steps
5 steps. One job each.
- 01
Install 4789
Follow the install guide. It takes about ten minutes the first time.
- 02
Put the file where iPhone can see it
Save the MKV in the Files app, in iCloud Drive, or plug in a USB-C drive. AirDrop from a Mac also lands in Files.
- 03
Import it
Open 4789. In Discover, tap Local Files, then Import. Pick the file.
- 04
Let 4789 name it
4789 reads the filename, fetches the poster and summary, and adds the title to your library.
- 05
Play
Tap the poster, then Play. Use the speech-bubble icon for subtitles and the audio icon to switch tracks.
Good to know
The details.
Formats that play
MKV, MP4, MOV, WebM. Codecs H.264, HEVC, AV1, VP9. HDR10, HLG and Dolby Vision are tone-mapped for the iPhone screen.
Subtitles inside the file
Embedded SRT, SSA and ASS tracks are listed in the player. Stylised ASS subtitles keep their styling.
Resume
4789 remembers where you stopped. Open the title again and it continues.