VLC Mobile Remote transforms your smartphone into a powerful remote for controlling media playback on a computer running VLC. This free tool is designed for users who want seamless control over their media center or desktop experience from the comfort of their couch.
What is VLC Mobile Remote?
VLC Mobile Remote is a utility application developed by Videolabs, the creators of the popular VLC media player. Its primary purpose is to allow users to remotely control the VLC player on their PC or Mac from an Android or iOS device. It is targeted at home theater PC (HTPC) users and anyone who prefers not to be tethered to their keyboard while watching videos or listening to music.
Why Should You Use VLC Mobile Remote?
This app offers a significant convenience factor. Instead of getting up to pause a movie or fumbling with a keyboard in a dark room, you can manage everything from your phone. It provides a more theater-like experience, putting essential playback controls right in your hand. The main advantages include convenience, a user-friendly interface, and seamless integration with the trusted VLC player.
Key Features of VLC Mobile Remote
Full Playback Control: Play, pause, stop, skip to the next or previous file, and adjust the volume directly from your mobile device.
Playlist Management: Browse, view, and manage the current playlist on your computer. You can select, reorder, or remove files without touching the PC.
Gesture Controls: Use intuitive touch gestures on your phone's screen to seek through a video timeline or control the volume level.
File Browser: Navigate through the media library on your computer to open and play files directly from the VLC Mobile Remote app.
Playback Information: View real-time information about the currently playing file, including title, duration, and elapsed time.
Additional Features
Network Setup: The app connects to VLC over your local Wi-Fi network, ensuring a stable and responsive link without requiring an internet connection.
Customizable Interface: Users can often customize the layout and which control buttons are most prominent on their remote screen for a personalized experience.
How to Download and Install VLC Mobile Remote
1. Ensure VLC media player is installed and running on your Windows PC or Mac.
2. On your mobile device, open the official app store (Google Play Store or Apple App Store).
3. Search for "VLC Mobile Remote".
4. Tap "Install" or "Get" to download and install the application on your phone.
How to Use VLC Mobile Remote
1. Connect your computer and mobile device to the same Wi-Fi network.
2. Open VLC on your computer and navigate to Tools > Preferences. Show "All" settings, go to Interface > Main interfaces, then check "Web" and set a simple password if desired.
3. Open the VLC Mobile Remote app on your phone.
4. The app will automatically scan for running instances of VLC on your network. Select your computer from the list.
5. If you set a password, enter it. You are now connected and can control VLC remotely.
Advantages and Disadvantages
Pros:
Extremely low learning curve; it works immediately after a simple setup.
Completely free to use with no ads or in-app purchases.
Provides a highly responsive and reliable connection over a local network.
Offers more control and a better user experience than VLC's default web interface.
Cons:
Requires VLC to be running and properly configured on the host computer first.
Both devices must be on the same local network; it does not work over the internet remotely.
Is VLC Mobile Remote Safe to Use?
Yes, VLC Mobile Remote is safe. Developed by the official VLC team, it is a trusted utility. The connection is made locally within your private network. The app may request network access permissions to discover and communicate with your computer, but it does not collect personal data.
Compatible Apps or Tools
VLC Mobile Remote is designed to work exclusively with the VLC media player desktop application on platforms including Windows, macOS, and Linux.
FAQs
Q: Does VLC Mobile Remote work over cellular data or Bluetooth?
A: No, it requires both devices to be connected to the same local Wi-Fi network to communicate.
Q: Is there a cost for using this remote?
A: No, the VLC Mobile Remote app is completely free and does not contain any advertisements.
Q: Can I control multiple computers with one phone?
A: Yes, the app can remember multiple VLC instances and allows you to switch between them easily.
Q: What should I do if the app cannot find my computer?
A: Ensure the "Web" interface is enabled in VLC's preferences and that both devices are on the same network. Also, check that any firewall on your computer is not blocking the connection.
Conclusion
VLC Mobile Remote is an essential, no-cost companion for any dedicated VLC user. It successfully turns your smartphone into a versatile and highly functional remote, greatly enhancing the media viewing experience from a distance. For anyone using VLC as their primary media player on a computer, downloading this tool is a simple and highly rewarding decision.
