How to Use VLC Media Player with AirPlay?
AirPlay is a fantastic feature that allows you to wirelessly stream audio and video from your iPhone, iPad, or Mac to a compatible device. But what about those of us who prefer the robust features of VLC Media Player? Can you use VLC with AirPlay?
The answer is yes, but it requires a few extra steps. Here's how to get it done:
Setting up VLC for AirPlay
Before you can start streaming using AirPlay, you need to configure VLC to work with the protocol. Here's how:
- Install the Latest VLC Version: Make sure you have the newest version of VLC Media Player installed. You can download it from the official VLC website.
- Open VLC Preferences: Navigate to Tools > Preferences in VLC.
- Select Advanced Settings: Click the All option to enable advanced preferences.
- Find Network Settings: Under the Interface category, select Main Interfaces.
- Enable AirPlay: In the Network section, check the box for Enable AirPlay.
- Select Your Device: In the Devices section, choose the Apple device you want to use as your AirPlay source.
Connecting Your Device to VLC
Now that VLC is configured for AirPlay, you'll need to connect your device to VLC:
- Open the Control Center: On your iPhone, iPad, or Mac, open the Control Center.
- Select AirPlay: Tap on the AirPlay icon.
- Choose VLC: Select the VLC Media Player as your AirPlay output device.
- Start Playing: Start playing audio or video on your device. It should now be playing through your VLC Media Player.
Troubleshooting AirPlay Issues
If you are having trouble connecting VLC with AirPlay, try these troubleshooting tips:
- Check your Network: Make sure your VLC computer and your Apple device are connected to the same Wi-Fi network.
- Restart Both Devices: Try restarting both your VLC computer and your Apple device.
- Update your AirPlay Devices: Ensure your AirPlay devices are up-to-date with the latest software.
- Close Other Applications: Sometimes other applications using the network can interfere with AirPlay. Try closing any unnecessary applications.
- Check for VLC Updates: Update VLC to the latest version if you haven't already.
VLC AirPlay Advantages
Using VLC with AirPlay can be a powerful combination, especially when you consider the benefits:
- Enhanced Playback Control: VLC offers more advanced playback controls like seeking, pausing, and adjusting volume, which are not always available with native AirPlay.
- Support for Multiple Formats: VLC supports a wide variety of audio and video formats, while AirPlay might be limited in what it can handle.
- Hardware Decoding: VLC can utilize your computer's hardware for decoding, improving playback performance and reducing CPU strain.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can successfully use VLC Media Player with AirPlay to stream audio and video from your Apple devices to your computer. Enjoy the enhanced features of VLC and the convenience of AirPlay!