Vimeo, the video-centric social networking site, has landed a sucker punch on Adobe by releasing its own universal media player that will allow its videos to be played on Apple devices like the iPad and iPhone.
The new Vimeo HTML 5 embeddable player detects the capabilities of the browser and will deliver the optimum player version (Flash, HTML5, or native) with the appropriate video definition (HD, SD, mobile) and playback codec (h.264, webm). This innovation ensures that users have a seamless viewing experience regardless of the device or browser they are using.
Enhanced Viewing Experience
Vimeo’s new player is a significant step forward in providing a more versatile and user-friendly viewing experience. By automatically adjusting to the best possible format, Vimeo ensures that users can enjoy high-quality video without the hassle of manual adjustments or compatibility issues. This is particularly beneficial for users of Apple devices, which do not support Flash, making the HTML5 player a crucial development.
Moreover, the player supports various video definitions, including HD for high-resolution viewing, SD for standard definition, and mobile for on-the-go viewing. This flexibility caters to different user needs and internet speeds, ensuring that everyone can enjoy Vimeo’s content without interruption.
Watch Later Feature
Vimeo has also added a watch later feature that allows you to catch up on movies when you have time. Vimeo has added a Watch Later button into all Vimeo player versions that allows users to access their Watch Later videos by visiting the Watch Later album on Vimeo.com, the Vimeo channel on their Roku box, or the Vimeo mobile site. This feature is particularly useful for users who come across interesting videos but do not have the time to watch them immediately. By simply clicking the Watch Later button, users can save videos to a dedicated album and return to them at their convenience.
The Watch Later feature is seamlessly integrated across all platforms, making it easy to access saved videos whether you’re on your computer, mobile device, or streaming through a Roku box. This cross-platform functionality enhances the user experience by providing flexibility and convenience.
Impact on the Industry
Vimeo’s move to develop its own universal media player is a strategic one, positioning the company as a leader in video technology. By bypassing the need for Flash, Vimeo not only improves compatibility with Apple devices but also aligns with the broader industry shift towards HTML5. This shift is driven by the need for more secure, efficient, and versatile web technologies.
The introduction of the HTML5 player also puts pressure on other video platforms to innovate and improve their own offerings. As users become accustomed to the seamless experience provided by Vimeo, they will likely expect similar functionality from other services. This could lead to a wave of improvements across the industry, benefiting users everywhere.
In conclusion, Vimeo’s new HTML5 universal media player represents a significant advancement in video technology. By ensuring compatibility with a wide range of devices and browsers, offering multiple video definitions, and introducing a convenient Watch Later feature, Vimeo has enhanced the user experience and set a new standard for the industry. As the shift towards HTML5 continues, Vimeo’s innovation will likely inspire further developments and improvements in video streaming technology.
Via Gizmodo
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