Powerpoint Embedded Video Codec issue

Question

I have several presentations with embedded videos (usually in .mov format). I made the presentations in Powerpoint 2011 for Mac (version 14.7.7) and they still work in it. 

However, I only have Powerpoint Version 16.17 on my school computer. If I try and show the presentations on it, the videos get a "codec unavailable" error.  As I do not still have the videos, and extracting and converting each one would take a lot of time (and I am not sure what conversion would be necessary in any event), I am wondering if there is a simpler solution?

Thanks

Answer 1

Hi

Since you do not have the videos as independent files, you will discover that PowerPoint made copies of the videos and they are included in your presentation. Based on what you said, I am assuming you chose to embed and not link to them.

Use File > Save As and save your presentation in current PowerPoint file format (for example .pptx). Make two copies - one to mess with and another to keep. These are secretly text files. In finder you can change the extension from .pptx to .zip. Then you can use Stuffit Exapander (free) to peek inside the presentation contents. There's a Media folder that will have the original movie files.

Most likely, simply opening the movies in QuickTime player and then exporting them will update the movie file format to the current codecs.

Then you can delete the non-working movies from the presentations and insert the new format movies in their place.

Answer 2

Hi MrPCJ,

First I would like to suggest you update your Office applications to the latest version 16.18 to get bug fixes and new features releases.

According to my researching, I have found a same issue from an user like the one you encounter, the user tried to save the presentation from ".ppt" to ".pptx", delete the videos and insert them to the presentation again.

You can try to follow this to see the result (please make a copy to do the test).

To better understand your situation and provide help for you, please help confirm some information:

1. Could you please capture a screenshot of the error message and share the steps which you get the error message with us?
2. Can the videos be played in video player correctly such as QuickTime Player?

Best Regards,

Gloria

Answer 3

@ Gloria - Please notice that MrPCJ said, "I do not still have the videos"

Answer 4

Hi MrPCJ,

Have tried to saved the file from .ppt to .pptx and inserted the videos again?

Does the issue persist? If so, please help confirm the information.

Best Regards,

Gloria