If a video file appears on the timeline but:

• plays without sound
• shows audio only with no picture
• imports incorrectly or does not import at all

This usually means the file uses a codec that cannot be decoded on your system.

Start here (quick check)

Before changing any settings:

1. Open the file in a Windows built-in player, such as Media Player.
2. Try importing a different file into Movavi (for example, an MP4 with H.264 video).

If other files work and only this file fails, continue below.

Common reasons and solutions

Case 1: The file uses an unsupported codec

Movavi Video Editor can import many popular formats, but some codecs may not be supported on a specific system. If a file is encoded with an unsupported codec, it may import without video or without audio.
What you can do

1. If possible, change your camera settings from the camera/phone to a “Most Compatible’” codec.
2. Or convert the file to a supported format, for example:

• MP4 container
• H.264 video
• AAC audio

1. Conversion can be done through open-source options like VLC, Handbrake, or Video Converter application
2. Import the converted file again

Case 2: The video uses H.265 (HEVC)

If the file:

• imports with audio only
• shows a black or empty preview, or
• fails to import at all
• prompts a message that the video codec is not supported

– it may be encoded using H.265 (HEVC).

On Windows, HEVC decoding depends on system-level and hardware support, not only on the program itself.

What you can do

Some Windows systems require an additional HEVC component.
After installing HEVC extension:

• restart your computer
• try importing the file again

⚠️ HEVC decoding is only available on Windows 10, 11 if the extension is installed or came pre-installed on your device.
As an alternative, convert the video to H.264 and import it again.