Why Ubuntu Doesn't Support MP3, Flash & Multimedia - Explained
Restricted Codecs and Linux Distributions
Many Linux distributions are initially shipped without built-in support for common multimedia formats. This includes popular codecs like MP3 for audio, H.264 for video, and the ability to play Flash content.
Support for commercial video DVDs is also frequently absent. Several factors contribute to these omissions.
Reasons for Limited Out-of-the-Box Support
Restrictions stem from a combination of issues. These include existing patents, the nature of closed-source software, and even legal regulations.
Certain software may be legally prohibited from inclusion in a Linux distribution due to these constraints.
The Linux Mint Approach
Linux Mint gained significant popularity, in part, due to its decision to include these restricted software packages by default.
This provided users with immediate access to a wider range of multimedia capabilities without requiring manual configuration.
Ease of Post-Installation
Even on distributions that do not include these codecs initially, installing them afterwards is generally a straightforward process.
Users can readily add support for MP3, H.264, Flash, and other formats following installation.
Closed-Source Software in Linux Distributions
The majority of Linux distributions prioritize the inclusion of exclusively open-source software. Despite this commitment, certain applications utilized by many users are, in fact, developed as closed-source programs.
A prime example of this is the Adobe Flash browser plug-in. While Linux distributions possess the capability to integrate Flash, they generally choose not to, preferring to maintain a purely open-source software base.
Reasons for Excluding Closed-Source Software
The primary reason for this preference stems from security concerns. Closed-source software cannot be readily audited for vulnerabilities or patched with the same efficiency as open-source alternatives. Distributions aim to avoid the burden of ongoing support for such software.
Furthermore, reliance on closed-source components can create dependencies that hinder the distribution’s control and flexibility.
Other Examples of Omitted Closed-Source Software
Beyond Flash, several other closed-source applications are typically absent from default installations in most Linux distributions.
- Oracle’s Java plug-in, though its usage has declined with the emergence of open-source alternatives.
- Google Chrome, due to its inclusion of some proprietary elements; distributions often favor Chromium, the open-source browser upon which Chrome is built.
- Proprietary 3D graphics drivers from NVIDIA and ATI, which, while enhancing 3D acceleration, are not open-source.
These drivers are often available for separate installation, allowing users to prioritize performance when needed. The decision to exclude these programs reflects a dedication to the principles of open-source software and user control.
Software Affected by Patents
A significant number of multimedia formats are protected by patents. Even widely used formats, such as MP3 for audio and H.264 for video, are covered by numerous patents. Organizations comprised of patent holders consolidate their patents and collect licensing fees for the distribution of software utilizing them.
Linux distributions aim to avoid incurring patent licensing fees each time their software is freely downloaded. Consequently, they often exclude support for these patented media codecs.
Certain media formats are supported directly, including FLAC for lossless audio, Ogg Vorbis for audio, and Ogg Theora for video. This is the reason why audio tools within these distributions typically default to the OGG audio format rather than MP3 files.
Codec Installation
Despite this initial exclusion, patented codecs can be installed subsequently. Once installed, these codecs are automatically recognized and utilized by the included multimedia applications.
Historically, even image formats like GIF faced similar restrictions. The LZW compression algorithm, essential for GIF creation, was once patented. Unisys, the patent holder, pursued legal action against those generating GIFs without proper licensing.
Fortunately, this particular patent expired in the United States in 2003, resolving the issue.
The MP3 patents were anticipated to expire in the USA by 2017. Following this expiration, Linux distributions and other software developers could incorporate MP3 support without facing licensing costs or legal challenges.
While most software likely infringes upon a multitude of software patents, multimedia patent consortiums are known for their particularly assertive enforcement practices. Patent encumbrance is a significant consideration in software development and distribution.
Software Legality Concerns
Within the United States, providing support for commercially produced video DVDs is potentially a violation of the Digital Millennium Copyright Act (DMCA). Similarly, support for Blu-ray and HD-DVD video discs would likely face the same legal challenges.
These disc formats all employ encryption technologies. Circumventing this encryption without securing the necessary licensing fees is prohibited by law. Instead of navigating these complexities, Ubuntu has chosen to avoid full native playback of video DVDs.
Potential Patent Issues
Beyond direct legal prohibitions, distributing software capable of handling DVDs, Blu-rays, and HD-DVDs could also lead to complications related to existing patents, even if the act of circumvention itself were deemed permissible.
The risk of patent infringement is a significant factor in Ubuntu’s decision-making process regarding multimedia codec inclusion.
Therefore, a proactive approach is taken to avoid potential legal disputes.
Accessing Restricted Software
Traditionally, the majority of Linux operating systems require users to install closed-source, patented, and otherwise restricted software components following the initial system setup. Previously, users of distributions such as Mandrake or Fedora would often seek out third-party repositories like the PLF (Penguin Liberation Front) or RPM Fusion.
These repositories were then added to the system, enabling the installation of restricted software. Linux distributions generally avoided directly facilitating the installation or hosting of such software.
However, Ubuntu simplifies this process. While not included by default, these packages are readily installable. During Ubuntu installation, a single checkbox allows for the automatic installation of Flash, restricted codecs, and other necessary software.
Much of this software resides within the Multiverse repository, which is officially maintained by Ubuntu. Despite being designated as “not free” and lacking official support, it provides access through standard package management tools.
Furthermore, Ubuntu proactively prompts users to install required software when needed. If a website utilizes Flash, or a video/audio file requires a specific codec, or a closed-source driver would benefit the graphics card, Ubuntu will offer guidance through the installation process.
One area where Ubuntu provides limited direct assistance is with commercial video DVDs. Distributing DVD playback support could potentially be illegal in certain jurisdictions. Ubuntu’s wiki provides a script for installing the necessary support, avoiding the legal implications of hosting the software directly.
The wiki also notes that the installation of libdvdcss software may be unlawful in some regions, demonstrating Ubuntu’s cautious approach.
The installation of Flash and various codecs once presented a significant challenge for new Linux users, often requiring familiarity with unofficial repositories to play MP3 files. This situation has improved considerably in recent years.
However, support for numerous media formats is still not installed as a default component of the operating system.