We’ve looked at removing DRM from iTunes movies and TV shows on Windows, but what about Mac OS X? Here’s how to rip out the DRM and turn that copy-protected M4V file into a regular old MP4 on your Mac.
Wired’s How-To Wiki points to a piece of software called NoteBurner M4V Converter Plus (direct download), which will let you convert your iTunes video rentals and purchases to another DRM-free format. By default, NoteBurner simply creates an MP4, but it’s also capable of conforming the file to new specifications so you can play it back on a non-Apple device (like a Blackberry, PSP, and several other options). Here’s how it works:
- To make the magic happen, all you need to do is launch NoteBurner with iTunes closed (you’ll be prompted to relaunch iTunes if you don’t). Once NoteBurner is open, you can launch iTunes and add a DRM-laden purchase by clicking the Add File icon in the top left corner of the application. This will bring up a list of movies in iTunes and you can choose anything you like.
- Next, select the output profile for the type of video you want to create (unless you want it to be identical to the iTunes file, in which case you don’t have to do anything).
- Click the Convert icon up top.
- Wait for the conversion to finish, during which you will not be able to use iTunes.
This process works very well and is really easy, but the downside is that it will cost you money ($US40 to $US50, depending on the version). If you want a slower, crappier, but free-er alternative, you can instead play the DRM movie on your computer and use QuickTime X (or other screencasting software) to record the screen and your Mac’s audio. This conversion will take the length of the movie, but it’s something you can set your computer to do while you’re away. If it records too much, you can always trim it off later.
How to Rip DRM from Rental iTunes m4v TV show to mp4 | Wired How-To Wiki
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