Compress an iPhone video
Recent iPhones record 4K HEVC video by default, which can use a lot of space per minute and often isn't accepted by messaging apps and email. You can compress it straight from Safari: choose the video from your Photos library, pick a size, and save a much smaller MP4 to Files or share it directly.
Last updated September 2026
Compress an iPhone video →How to do it
- Open the compressor in Safari on your iPhone.
- Tap to choose a file and pick the video from your Photo Library.
- Choose a preset (WhatsApp, Email) or a custom size, and set 1080p or 720p.
- Keep Safari in the foreground while it compresses — iOS may pause background tabs.
- Download the MP4 and save or share it from the Files app.
Tips
- iPhones give browsers less memory than desktops. For long 4K clips, trim first or compress on a computer.
- Picking 720p speeds up encoding noticeably on a phone.
FAQ
Does it work on iPhone?
Yes, in Safari and other iOS browsers. Performance and maximum file size depend on the phone's memory, so very long 4K videos may be too large.
Where does the compressed video go?
It downloads to the Files app (usually Downloads). From there you can save it to Photos or share it.
Is the video uploaded?
No. Compression runs locally in the browser on your iPhone.