Watch Videos on iPhone, iPad & iPod Touch

iOS Video Playback: Beyond VLC Media Player

A recent article highlighted the release of VLC Media Player for iOS, simplifying video viewing for Apple device owners. Previously, users often needed to convert videos for compatibility with their iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch.

Introducing OPlayer Lite

Although VLC has established itself as a leading multi-platform video player for Mac, Windows, and Linux, a new contender has emerged on iOS: OPlayer Lite. This application boasts a wider range of features that could potentially surpass those offered by VLC.

Currently, two versions of OPlayer are available through the iTunes Store. These include OPlayer Lite, designed for the iPhone and iPod Touch, and OPlayerHD Lite, specifically optimized for the iPad.

Compatibility Comparison

The VLC Media Player application, also accessible via the iTunes Store, maintains compatibility across the entire spectrum of iOS devices. This contrasts with the device-specific versions of OPlayer Lite.

Here's a quick comparison:

VLC Media Player: Compatible with all iOS devices.
OPlayer Lite: Designed for iPhone and iPod Touch.
OPlayerHD Lite: Optimized for iPad.

OPlayer Lite presents a compelling alternative for iOS users seeking advanced video playback capabilities. Its feature set warrants consideration alongside the well-known VLC Media Player.

Transferring Videos to Your iOS Device

A swift and straightforward method for moving videos from your computer to an iOS device involves utilizing a USB connection. Connect your device to your computer, then initiate iTunes and proceed to the section displaying installed applications.

Navigate to the 'File sharing' area located at the bottom of the page. Here, applications supporting direct file transfers between your computer and iOS device will be displayed. Choose either OPlayer Lite or VLC Player to begin adding videos to your library.

Alternatively, OPlayer HD Lite offers an over-the-air transfer option. Ensure both your computer and iOS device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network, and launch OPlayer HD Lite.

Select the 'More' tab at the screen's bottom, then choose Wifi Transfer. Note the provided IP address and input it into your web browser.

This will allow you to upload files individually from your computer. However, this method is considerably slower and may impact your device’s battery performance. USB transfer typically completes within one minute for files up to 1.5GB in size.

It’s important to maintain an open WiFi transfer window during file copying to prevent connection interruptions. Otherwise, the transfer process may be halted.

Both VLC and OPlayer provide the convenience of resuming video playback precisely where you left off, even after closing the application. This feature enhances the user experience.

Viewing Videos Directly Within Your Email

To view a video that has been delivered through email, the initial step involves downloading the video file using your email application. Upon attempting to open the downloaded file, if VLC media player is installed, you will likely receive a prompt asking if you wish to open the video with it, or an alternative application.

Utilizing Different Video Players

Should you prefer to utilize OPlayer, selecting the 'Open in...' option will present a comprehensive list of compatible programs installed on your system.

From this list, simply choose OPlayer, and the video will begin playing without delay.

VLC vs. OPlayer: Key Differences

A significant distinction between VLC and OPlayer when handling videos received via email lies in their storage methods.

OPlayer automatically saves the video file to your device.
With VLC, replaying the video necessitates downloading it to your computer first, followed by a transfer to your iOS device.

This means that OPlayer offers a more convenient, one-step solution for repeated viewing.

Consider your viewing habits when choosing between these players. If frequent access is needed, OPlayer’s storage capability is advantageous.

Why Opt for OPlayer?

For users prioritizing functionality, OPlayer generally presents a more advantageous option. A key distinction lies in OPlayer’s capability to facilitate playlist creation and direct video organization into folders on your iPad.

Video Playback Quality

VLC’s performance with high-definition video can be suboptimal, often accompanied by a disclaimer regarding potential playback issues on the iPad. OPlayer manages HD video more effectively, though the resulting quality may still not fully meet expectations.

Subtitle Support

Currently, subtitle functionality has been temporarily removed from VLC Media Player. Therefore, individuals who frequently view foreign films may find OPlayer Lite to be a superior choice, at least until subtitles are reinstated in VLC.

Control Over Video Settings

A significant difference between the two players is the degree of control offered over video settings. VLC provides no options for adjustment, while OPlayer allows users to modify parameters such as aspect ratio, audio stream index, and subtitle stream index.

Additional Features

OPlayer incorporates supplementary features, including video streaming, an integrated web browser, and the ability to directly download content to your iOS device.

These added functionalities enhance the user experience and provide greater versatility compared to VLC.

VLC: A User-Focused Video Player

For users prioritizing visual appeal, VLC presents a more attractive option. Though it lacks organizational features, the overall user interface is considerably more engaging than the simpler design found in OPlayer.

Key Advantages of VLC

A significant benefit of VLC over OPlayer Lite is its ad-free experience. OPlayer Lite displays a small advertisement at the top of the screen during video playback, which some users may find disruptive.

Both video players offer convenient functionalities. These include the ability to directly delete videos from your iOS device.

Furthermore, playback can be seamlessly resumed upon reopening either application, picking up precisely where you left off.

User Engagement

We are interested in learning about your preferred methods for enjoying videos on your iOS devices. Share your thoughts and experiences with us in the comments section below.

Do you have a favorite player or a unique approach to video playback? Let us know!