Help & FAQ - VidCompacter

How do I shrink a video?

Open VidCompacter, pick a video from Photos (iPhone or iPad) or drop a file (Mac), then wait while it makes a smaller copy. When it finishes, share or save the file yourself. You do not pick settings. No account, no upload.

Can I convert more than one?

Not at the same time. VidCompacter works on one video at a time. You can add more while one is running; they wait in a queue and start when the current one finishes. Cancel a waiting card anytime, or cancel the one that is converting.

Where does the finished file go?

On iPhone and iPad, the smaller file stays in the app until you share it, save it, or clear it. On Mac, look in Downloads for a file ending in _social.mp4. Your original stays where it was.

Does VidCompacter work offline?

Yes. Once you have the app, it works without the internet. No account, and nothing leaves your device while it shrinks the video.

Does it work on iPhone, iPad, and Mac?

Yes on iPhone, iPad, and Mac. Same idea everywhere: pick a video, wait, share it yourself. If you run into something wonky on a larger screen, tell Jess on the support form and pick iPad as the platform.

Why is a long video taking so long?

Longer clips need more work, especially when VidCompacter has to try again to land under about 39 MB. Keep the app open while it runs. Short clips are usually quick; long 4K clips can take a few minutes. That is normal.

Cancel vs failed. What is the difference?

Cancelled means you stopped it on purpose (the ✕ on the current job or a waiting card). There is no finished file from that run. Failed means something went wrong while converting. Try again, or pick a different video. If it keeps failing, use the support form with a screenshot of the error. Please do not upload your video file.

Where is the privacy policy?

Right here: VidCompacter Privacy Policy. Short version: shrinking happens on your device. We do not collect your videos or personal data to run the app.

What size limit does Mastodon have?

Most Mastodon servers cap video around 40 MB. VidCompacter aims for about 39 MB so your file fits comfortably. Longer videos can land a bit different in size, but the goal is always “small enough to post.”

Does this work for Bluesky?

Yes. As of August 2026, Bluesky allows videos up to 300 MB and 10 minutes. VidCompacter’s smaller file still looks great there, and it usually sends faster than the original from your phone.

Will it post my video for me?

No. VidCompacter makes a smaller copy, then you share it yourself to Mastodon, Bluesky, or wherever you post. You stay in control.

Can I use it for Telegram or other messaging apps?

Yes. It is built with Mastodon and Bluesky in mind, but a smaller file helps in lots of apps. Other apps have their own size limits.

How does it shrink my video?

It makes a smaller copy that still looks clear. If that copy is still too big, VidCompacter tries again until it fits. You do not pick any settings.

Does my video leave my device?

No. Shrinking happens on your iPhone, iPad, or Mac. We do not upload it. When you are ready, you post the file yourself.

Do I need an account?

No. No account, no ads, no watermark.

How much does it cost?

One-time purchase when it ships for iPhone, iPad, and Mac. No ads. No watermark. No subscription. The App Store listing is not live yet.

How do I get help?

Open the support form, choose VidCompacter, and tell Jess what you tried. Screenshots of errors are welcome. Please do not upload your video file.

Still need help?