A file with the .rmv file extension is an older version of the Real Media Video file type. Real Media video files normally are played using the RealNetworks RealPlayer media player. However, the .rmv file format will sometimes generate errors in newer versions of the video player software.
What is RealPlayer?
- RealPlayer by RealNetworks is a media player that supports and plays the Real audio and video file formats, as well as most other types of media, including Windows Media Player and QuickTime files. RealPlayer software is available for most operating systems; a free version of the program can be downloaded from real.com.
New RealPlayer File Extension
- Newer versions of RealPlayer do not recognize the .rmv file format as the default video file format, as with previous versions of the player. However, the encoding has not changed in RealPlayer -- the default file extension for the RealPlayer software has changed from .rmv to rmvb.
Play RMV Files
- The answer to how to play RMV files is simple: First, download and install RealPlayer. Next, rename the file extension of .rmv to .rmvb. Open the video file in RealPlayer and the video will play. The default video file extension for RealPlayer video files is now .rmvb. Double-clicking on the RMVB file opens the video in RealPlayer.
Edit File Extension
- To edit a file extension -- for example, to add “B” to the RMV file extension -- you must first make the file extensions visible in Windows Explorer. To do this, open Windows Explorer, click “Tools,” and then click “Folder Options.” Click the “View” tab and deselect the check box labeled “Hide File Extensions for Known File Types.” Click “OK.” File extensions are now visible on the desktop, and in Windows Explorer. Right-click on the file and click “Rename” to add the “B” to the .rmv file extension.
