How can I convert audios to mp3 in windows 11?

Windows Media Player (WMP) does not natively support converting audio files to the MP3 format because of licensing and built-in feature limitations. Here’s why and what you can do instead:

Why Windows Media Player Can't Convert to MP3:

1. No Built-in MP3 Encoding Support

WMP can play MP3 files, but it does not include an MP3 encoder for converting other formats (like WAV, WMA, etc.) to MP3 due to licensing restrictions.

Microsoft historically preferred its proprietary WMA (Windows Media Audio) format for encoding.

2. Limited Conversion Features

WMP allows ripping CDs, but by default, it only supports WMA, AAC (in newer versions), or uncompressed WAV formats not MP3.

Even if you try to "Rip CD" or "Save as," MP3 won’t appear as an option unless you install a third-party encoder.

Best alternative for converting audio files to MP3?

If you need frequent conversions, Audaciity (for editing) or V1LC (for quick conversions) are the best free options. For batch conversions, Freeemake Audio Converter is user-friendly.