Apple opens door to VLC on iPad, and soon on iPhone

No more conversion of DivX files to the format defined by Apple (H.264) to view them on the iPad! This week Apple opened the door to the VLC multimedia player at the Appstore.

VLC, is a sort of master key for video content enthusiasts. This very popular media player is very quick and simple to install on any system and can play a very wide range of codecs. You just slide your file in, a DivX for example, and hey presto, the film starts.

Not yet for 720p

The arrival of VLC on iPad is therefore very good news. It can be seen as a sign that Apple is softening its hard line. Indeed, over the last few weeks, Apple has been allowing competitor software to set up shop at the app store, something which it hasn't usually done in the past. What's going on then? Most probably the firm is preempting actions by competition authorities, who could well prosecute it for abusing its dominant market position.

For users, it's very good news. The conversion of DivX and Xvid files via HandBreak or other is a very time-consuming task. Now there's no need! Best however to stick to standard formats, as HD (720p) is still a problem.

Forced or not, the Apple move could well have a second positive benefit, which is to encourage previously reticent consumers to buy into what they previously saw as a closed club with formats imposed from above. This is something that even Apple fans often criticize the brand for.

Note that VLC could soon also be available for iPhone and iPod Touch.


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