AAC File Extension

What is AAC file?

An .AAC file is an advanced audio coding file that implements advanced encoding and compression for storing the digital audio data file. The AAC file format is the default file format used by some of the media players, such as Apple iTunes, Winamp, and the Windows Media Player applications. The AAC file format is similar to the MP3 file format with improved performance optimization and better sound clarity. Further, the AAC file format is more effective in handling audio signals with frequency of 16kHz and higher.

Programs which support AAC file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 4 operating systems that support AAC files. Files with AAC suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 03/23/2020

How to open file with AAC extension?

Problems with accessing AAC may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with AAC extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The list below will guide you through the process of addressing the encountered problem.

Step 1. Install Winamp software

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening AAC files is that no program that can handle AAC files is installed on user’s system. This one is an easy one. Select Winamp or one of the recommended programs (for example, iTunes, VLC media player, Media Player Classic) and download it from appropriate source and install on your system. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. If you want to download Winamp installer in the most secured manner, we suggest you visit Radionomy website and download from their official repositories.

Step 2. Check the version of Winamp and update if needed

You still cannot access AAC files although Winamp is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Software developers may implement support for more modern file formats in updated versions of their products. This can be one of the causes why AAC files are not compatible with Winamp. The latest version of Winamp should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Associate Advanced Audio Coding Format files with Winamp

After installing Winamp (the most recent version) make sure that it is set as the default application to open AAC files. The method is quite simple and varies little across operating systems.

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the AAC file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• Finally select Look for another app on this PC, point to the folder where Winamp is installed, check the Always use this app to open AAC files box and conform your selection by clicking OK button

Change the default application in Mac OS

• From the drop-down menu, accessed by clicking the file with AAC extension, select Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• From the list choose the appropriate program and confirm by clicking Change for all....
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with AAC extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the AAC file is complete and free of errors

You closely followed the steps listed in points 1-3, but the problem is still present? You should check whether the file is a proper AAC file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. The AAC may be infected with malware – make sure to scan it with an antivirus tool.

Should it happed that the AAC is infected with a virus, this may be that cause that prevents you from accessing it. It is advised to scan the system for viruses and malware as soon as possible or use an online antivirus scanner. If the AAC file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

2. Ensure the file with AAC extension is complete and error-free

Did you receive the AAC file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with AAC extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Check if the user that you are logged as has administrative privileges.

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Advanced Audio Coding Format file again.

4. Verify that your device fulfills the requirements to be able to open Winamp

If the system is under havy load, it may not be able to handle the program that you use to open files with AAC extension. In this case close the other applications.

5. Check if you have the latest updates to the operating system and drivers

Up-to-date system and drivers not only makes your computer more secure, but also may solve problems with Advanced Audio Coding Format file. It is possible that one of the available system or driver updates may solve the problems with AAC files affecting older versions of given software.

Do you want to help?

If you have additional information about the AAC file, we will be grateful if you share it with our users. To do this, use the form here and send us your information on AAC file.