RM File Extension

What is RM file?

RM is a multimedia container format.

Contents of RM files

Files with RM extension can store only audio or video data, or an audio-video stream. This is dictated by the RealMedia standard specification, which the extension is named after. The standard specifies tha if an RM container contains only audio data, the file should use RA (Real Audio) extension. In the cans of RM containers containing bot audio and video data or only video data, it extension should be RV (Real Video). In specific cases RM files can store URL of a multimedia file on the Internet. Opening an RM file using dedicated software program opens the media stream.

Use cases of RM files

Aside storing audio video data, RM files are also used for streaming media content over the Internet. The format however has a significant in that it doesn't have a steaming bandwidth settings function for its content. This means that the transmission speed doesn't change based on the stream quality. This in turn forces some more dynamic sequences to be streamed in lower quality. RM files are commonly used for streaming videos and for Internet radio streaming.

Programs which support RM file extension

The following list contains programs grouped by 5 operating systems that support RM files. RM files can be encountered on all system platforms, including mobile, yet there is no guarantee each will properly support such files.

Updated: 11/24/2023

How to open file with RM extension?

Problems with accessing RM may be due to various reasons. What is important, all common issues related to files with RM extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. We have prepared a listing of which will help you resolve your problems with RM files.

Step 1. Download and install RealPlayer

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening RM files is that no program that can handle RM files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing RealPlayer or different compatible program, such as VLC media player, GOM Player, AVS Video Converter. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. The safest method of downloading RealPlayer installed is by going to developer’s website (RealNetworks, Inc.) and downloading the software using provided links.

Step 2. Update RealPlayer to the latest version

You still cannot access RM files although RealPlayer is installed on your system? Make sure that the software is up to date. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why RM files are not compatible with RealPlayer. The most recent version of RealPlayer is backward compatible and can handle file formats supported by older versions of the software.

Step 3. Assign RealPlayer to RM files

If you have the latest version of RealPlayer installed and the problem persists, select it as the default program to be used to manage RM on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

Change the default application in Windows

• Right-click the RM file and choose Open with option
• Next, select the Choose another app option and then using More apps open the list of available applications
• To finalize the process, select Look for another app on this PC entry and using the file explorer select the RealPlayer installation folder. Confirm by checking Always use this app to open RM files box and clicking OK button.

Change the default application in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected RM file open the file menu and choose Information
• Proceed to the Open with section. If its closed, click the title to access available options
• Select RealPlayer and click Change for all...
• A message window should appear informing that This change will be applied to all files with RM extension. By clicking Continue you confirm your selection.

Step 4. Ensure that the RM 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 RM file. It is probable that the file is corrupted and thus cannot be accessed.

1. Check the RM file for viruses or malware

If the RM is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Scan the RM file as well as your computer for malware or viruses. If the RM file is indeed infected follow the instructions below.

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

Did you receive the RM 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. If the RM file has been downloaded from the internet only partially, try to redownload it.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

Sometimes in order to access files user need to have administrative privileges. Switch to an account that has required privileges and try opening the Real Media Format file again.

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

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support RM files. Close all running programs and try opening the RM file.

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

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with Real Media Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. Outdated drivers or software may have caused the inability to use a peripheral device needed to handle RM files.

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