BubbleUPnP is a powerful application for Android that transforms your mobile device into a versatile media control center. It enables seamless streaming of your personal music, videos, and photos to a wide array of devices on your home network. For anyone with a diverse media library, this app provides essential connectivity.
What is BubbleUPnP?
BubbleUPnP is a DLNA/UPnP controller, renderer, and server app. Its primary purpose is to facilitate the streaming of local and cloud-based media from a source device to compatible playback devices, such as smart TVs, game consoles, speakers, and Chromecast. The app is targeted at tech-savvy users and home media enthusiasts who want unified control over their distributed content across different platforms and hardware.
Why Should You Use BubbleUPnP?
Users choose this application for its robust ability to bridge the gap between various media sources and players. It solves common compatibility issues, allowing you to enjoy your entire collection without worrying about native file format support on the target device. Key advantages include its extensive device support, powerful transcoding capabilities, and reliable performance as a media server.
Key Features of BubbleUPnP
Stream to Renderers: Cast media to DLNA/UPnP devices, Google Chromecast, and Sonos speakers.
Media Server Support: Access content from local media servers (like Plex, Serviio, Windows Media Player) and cloud services (including Google Drive and OneDrive).
On-the-Fly Transcoding: Converts audio and video files in real-time into formats compatible with the target playback device.
Act as a Local Media Server: Turns your Android device into a UPnP/DLNA server to share its media library.
Playlist and Queue Management: Create and manage playlists for continuous playback of your favorite content.
Additional Features
Remote Access Setup
The app can help configure secure internet access to your home media servers, allowing you to stream your library from anywhere.
OpenHome Renderer Support
BubbleUPnP can create persistent software renderers, letting you control playback from multiple controller apps without interrupting the music.
Gapless Playback
Ensures a smooth, uninterrupted listening experience between audio tracks, which is essential for live albums and classical music.
User-Friendly Interface
It presents a clean, logical interface for browsing media servers, selecting renderers, and managing your playback queue.
How to Download and Install BubbleUPnP
1. Open the Google Play Store on your Android device.
2. Tap the search icon and type "BubbleUPnP".
3. Select the app from the search results, developed by Bubblesoft.
4. Tap "Install" and wait for the download and installation process to complete.
5. Once installed, open the app to begin setup.
How to Use BubbleUPnP
1. Launch the App: Open BubbleUPnP on your phone.
2. Select a Library: At the top, tap the Library tab and choose a source (e.g., your local device, a cloud service, or a network media server).
3. Choose a Renderer: Tap the Renderer tab and select the device you want to stream to (e.g., your TV or speaker).
4. Play Media: Browse your selected library and tap on any song, video, or image to instantly stream it to your chosen renderer.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros
Exceptionally reliable and stable connection to network devices.
Solves file format compatibility issues through effective transcoding.
Offers great value by unifying control of disparate media systems.
The interface, while dense with features, is logical and efficient.
Cons
The sheer number of options can be overwhelming for new users.
Some advanced features require purchasing a license.
Is BubbleUPnP Safe to Use?
Yes, BubbleUPnP is safe to use. It is a long-standing app on the Play Store with a proven track record. The permissions it requests are necessary for its core functionality, such as accessing media files on your device and discovering other devices on your local network. It does not engage in malicious data collection.
Compatible Apps or Tools
BubbleUPnP works harmoniously with many media servers and services. Common compatible tools include:
Plex Media Server
Emby Server
Serviio
Windows Media Player (with media sharing enabled)
Music players like Poweramp (via its internal share function)
FAQs
Does BubbleUPnP require an internet connection?
For streaming media on your local network between devices, an internet connection is not strictly necessary, only a WiFi network. Accessing cloud services or enabling remote access obviously requires an internet connection.
Is there a free version?
Yes, there is a fully functional free version supported by ads. An in-app purchase unlocks a licensed version that removes ads and enables advanced features like transcoding and OpenHome.
Can it play music in the background?
Yes, the app supports background audio playback, allowing you to use other apps on your phone while music streams.
Does it work with iOS?
There is a separate, full-featured version of BubbleUPnP available for download on the Apple App Store for iPhone and iPad users.
Conclusion
BubbleUPnP stands out as an indispensable tool for managing a modern digital media ecosystem at home. Its strength lies in its versatility and power, reliably connecting your content to your preferred playback hardware. For those seeking to break down the walls between devices and services, downloading BubbleUPnP is a highly recommended solution.
