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This has happened to me a few times. The file type can't be recognized on my factory media player. I have to find another version of the file or figure out how to convert it.
There is a high chance that you have encountered this problem before. The reason for this is simple- your computer's stock media player is not usually designed to handle the vast array of file types that are out there. In addition, new file types are being introduced all the time, and your media player is not equipped to adapt to this change.
If you are a film or TV buff, it is important to have a media player that can read and perform any file type. Unfortunately, iTunes and Windows Media Player are not always able to do this.
I cannot recommend VLC Media Player enough for its versatility and adaptability. Whether you are looking for a dynamic and user-friendly way to watch movies and shows on your desktop computer or mobile device, VLC simplifies and streamlines the experience every step of the way.
History
Indeed, VLC is widely considered to be the best media player available and is used by millions of people around the world.
The Video Lan Project originated as a college project in 1996. The project's original purpose was to implement a client and a server so that digital streaming of satellite dishes across a college campus would be possible. As VLC has gone beyond this relatively humble aspiration, it has become widely considered to be the best media player available. Millions of people use VLC around the world every day.
VLC is a creation that was born from students at the Ecole Centrale Paris. It has since been taken over by contributors from around the world. The Video Lan Project is a nonprofit organization that helps to coordinate and implement VLC releases. All of VLC's releases are free, which is unusual for software released by a nonprofit organization.
In 2010, people began work on mobile versions of the media player, but it wasn't until 2011 when the first VLC Media Player app was released on the Google Play Store for Android users. Around the same time, however, Applidium created a version of VLC for iOS with full endorsement from Video Land Project.
However, eventually, there was a licensing conflict between the Apple App Store policy and VLC developer Remi Denis-Courmant, resulting in the app being withdrawn from the App Store for iOS. It wasn't until 2013 that the VLC app was relicensed with a more universally acceptable licensing code, thanks to the advent of the Mozilla Public License option. VLC has been running strong on iOS ever since.
Design
If you are familiar with VLC, the iconic orange traffic cone icon will be easy to spot. The design was inspired by the traffic cones that were collected by Ecole Centrale Paris? networking students when VLC was first created.
I find the traffic cone icon to be usable and appropriate. I always know that I can use VLC to get past any problems I am having with a media file. The program truly does a lot of work, so it would be hard to imagine a more appropriate icon for the program.
I think the best way to describe the media player is that it is straightforward. It has a few buttons for playing, pausing, skipping, and more. Additionally, there is an audio equalizer which can be customized to your liking.
Speaking of customization, that is another thing that makes VLC Media Player stand out. It is actually somewhat difficult to speak on design when it comes to this program, seeing as VLC offers hundreds upon hundreds of predesigned skins that allow you to make VLC completely your own. Don't like any of the skins that are offered on the Video Lan Project site? That's okay, too, because VLC also offers you the ability to create customized skins. The design of VLC is up to you, really. Well, unless you are running VLC on Mac OS; unfortunately, skins are not yet compatible with Mac.
Content
VLC Media Player is a powerful Media Player that can play any type of file. It can play downloaded files, discs, webcams, and streams. It can also play many different codecs, which will automatically work without any need for special codec packs or converters. VLC is great for everything from MP2, MP4, FLAC, and MP3 to MKV, H.264, and WMV.
Not only can VLC Media Player be customized with skins, but there are also numerous extensions that can be used to improve its functionality. VLC offers a library of these extensions, so users are able to find what they need and make VLC their own. There are also plugins being developed regularly that can expand on VLC's capabilities even further. So, whether you're looking for customization or additional features, VLC has them all!
Desktop and Mobile Experience
I have never had any issues with VLC Media Player's desktop program for the past 10+ years. I haven't seen a single bug or glitch whatsoever, and it always runs smoothly on my computer. It uses minimal CPU space and can play all files at their highest resolution, which is great.
I think that the mobile VLC app could use some work - at least if we are talking about the iOS version. On the Apple Apps Store, VLC for Mobile only has a rating of three stars, which I think is appropriate given the apps comparatively clunky and cumbersome design.
Compared to the desktop program, which is more user-friendly and customizable, the mobile app is not as accessible or convenient. Some redesigns are needed in order to make it more comfortable and user-friendly. However, there is no free media player that is as versatile and well-made as this one.
Pricing and Plans
One of VLC's great qualities is that it is open-source and free to use. There are no tiers or hidden fees to worry about. From the moment you download the media player, you can immediately enjoy all that VLC has to offer. That being said, the Video Lan Project does accept donations. So, if you find that you enjoy the software, I highly recommend pitching in a few bucks if you can afford it. Freeware of this caliber is rare, so it should certainly be incentivized where possible!
Suggestions that I have for VLC Media Player
My only suggestion for VLC is that they rework their mobile app. I would like to see it more closely resemble the desktop program, as it is so easy to use. Other than that, keep on trucking?
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