Popular VLC media player to get a major face-lift after 20 years of its first release

Version 4 of the popular cross-platform video player, VLC, is finally set for release this year. The most prominent feature of version 4 is, of course, its revamped user interface, however, the new version packs with a lot of core features inside.

The most famous media player on almost any platform has now turned 20 years old this month. VideoLAN foundation has formally told that the new version will be released in coming months, Protocol reported.

It’s been over 2 years since the VLC 4 was presented at FOSDEM in February 2019. The initial screenshots of the new user interface and over a dozen new features were introduced along.

After twenty years since its first release, the VLC has been downloaded over 3.5 billion times. In addition to that, some of its encoding software libraries including x264 has been enabling many other media and streaming players.

The VLC media player will also integrate online content. But it won’t be providing its own catalogue videos. Instead, the software will allow users to install extensions of those third-party content providers, such as Freebox TV, or Tunein Radio – more like a customisable media centre.

VLC for web (not the traditional web plugin) based on the Webassembly and JavaScript is also coming. The Protocol also reported about a Moviepedia Project “kind of IMDB competitor” that VideoLAN is working on.

How to Download VLC 4.0?

Well, the final release is not here right now. Yet under development, the VLC 4 will soon see the day of light with a modern-day look and feel. The company has not mentioned any specific date for the release. However, if you are interested, you can always check out VLC’s nightly builds to download the up to date VLC player with the latest updates. But also note that these builds are not beta versions and are not meant for public use as they are more prone to have flaws and bugs.