VLC for Android enters public beta

When first launched, the app reminds users that VLC for Android is considered to be an early beta A public beta of the popular open source VLC Media Player is now available to download for devices running Google's Android mobile operating system. Its developers say that VLC for Android – which first appeared as a private beta in September 2011 – is intended for "power users and hackers", and currently plays "most" audio and video files whether locally or remotely stored.

Users can access their content using the built-in media library or by browsing a device's folders directly. Playback volume can be adjusted using gestures or with an included widget. The mobile app also supports auto-rotation, multi-track audio and subtitles, and aspect ratio adjustment.

When first launching the app, users are explicitly reminded that VLC for Android is an early beta with a message that reads: "It might kill your kitten, destroy your house and start the mayan apocalypse. Use at your own risk." The developers also note that "a lot of things are not finished, but will change for the final release". These include the app's basic user interface and overall performance, as well as the list of supported devices. The current beta only works with devices with an ARMv7 CPU that supports NEON engine. For testing, the developers recommend the Galaxy Nexus, HTC One X, Samsung Galaxy S3, Motorola Defy, HTC Desire and the Nexus One.

A full list of features can be found on the VLC for Android project's homepage. Version 0.0.1 of VLC for Android is available as a free download from the Google Play store for Android 2.1 or later. Alternatively, nightly builds are also provided on the project's site. Users testing the release are encouraged to provide feedback and report any bugs that they find. VLC for Android is licensed under the GPLv3 or later.

See also:

• VLC Media Player 2.0.2 adds Retina display support, a report from The H.
• More than one billion VLC downloads, a report from The H.
• VLC Media Player removed from Apple's iOS App Store, a report from The H.

(crve)