Once upon a time, Windows Media Player was the go-to multimedia hub for millions of users. But, as the tech tide flows, it saw its star dim in the face of competition from feature-rich alternatives like VLC and the rise of streaming services. Now, with the advent of Windows 11, Microsoft has reintroduced the application, but many users feel like it’s a shadow of its former self. Fortunately, there are several opportunities for Microsoft to breathe new life into this venerable application. Here are three suggestions to restore Windows Media Player to its former glory.
In the meantime, if you feel the need to upgrade your media experience now, it might be wise to explore other options like VLC, which consistently stays ahead of the curve in terms of features and functionality.
Engage with us in the comments below! How do you feel about the potential for Windows Media Player? Would you welcome these changes, or are you satisfied with a third-party alternative? Your thoughts are welcome!
Source: XDA 3 ways Microsoft can make Windows Media Player great again
1. Integrate Twitch Streaming Capabilities
In an age where streaming is king, especially in gaming, integrating Twitch into Windows Media Player could attract a wider audience. Imagine opening up Windows Media Player not just to listen to your favorite tunes but also to catch the latest game streams without needing to switch apps. Integrating Twitch would allow users to follow and interact with their favorite streamers seamlessly within a familiar interface. This feature would add a fun twist to the traditional media player role, making it a multi-use tool for both audio and visual entertainment.2. Expand Support for All Music File Formats
While Windows Media Player supports popular formats like MP3 and FLAC, it falls short when it comes to lossless audio formats such as APE and MPC. With audiophiles looking for the best quality possible, this limitation could deter potential users. By expanding compatible formats to match the likes of VLC, Microsoft could entice dedicated music lovers to migrate their large collections to Windows Media Player, allowing them to enjoy their tracks with high-quality album artwork and customizable playlists.3. Launch a Dedicated Podcast Section
Podcasts have exploded in popularity, yet Windows 11 currently lacks a dedicated application for listening to them. Herein lies an excellent opportunity for Windows Media Player to reinvent itself. By integrating a podcast section, users could effortlessly subscribe to shows, explore past episodes, and receive automatic updates when new episodes are released. This would align Windows Media Player with the offerings of competitors like Apple Podcasts, making it not only a music and video hub but also a centralized location for all audio media consumption.Conclusion: Hope for a Bright Future
While these features could significantly enhance Windows Media Player's usability and relevance, historical trends suggest Microsoft’s pace for implementing major updates may remain sluggish. After all, media applications like VLC have a proven track record of supporting nearly every media format and providing extensive customization options. However, with a bit of ambition and innovation, Windows Media Player has the potential to regain its crown as a compelling multimedia solution on Windows. Will Microsoft seize this moment? Only time will tell, but users can dream!In the meantime, if you feel the need to upgrade your media experience now, it might be wise to explore other options like VLC, which consistently stays ahead of the curve in terms of features and functionality.
Engage with us in the comments below! How do you feel about the potential for Windows Media Player? Would you welcome these changes, or are you satisfied with a third-party alternative? Your thoughts are welcome!
Source: XDA 3 ways Microsoft can make Windows Media Player great again
