VLC Media Player get major update for M1 Macs - and beyond

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An optimized version for macOS Big Sur

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VLC, the extremely popular cross-platform media player software, just got a big update which brings native support to Apple's M1 Macs.

The free open-source media player now features an updated 3.0.12 Mac app update specifically for macOS Big Sur and any Apple Silicon-supported devices.

Along with the native support for M1 Macs, which means greater performance and efficiency, the update also brings fixes to macOS audio, Blu-ray support, and improves security. 

Reported by 9to5mac, the update doesn't include universal binary, meaning the app has an Intel Mac version and M1 Mac version. It just means once the macOS has updated to 3.0.12, there will be the 3.0.12.1 version that needs to be installed for M1 Macs.

M1 Macs already boasts 2020's Rosetta 2, a dynamic binary translator which lets software for different platforms run just as well on macOS. However, with a popular service such as VLC introducing native apps for Apple Silicon, we could be seeing a lot more optimisation for Macs coming our way.

Why else is everyone so excited about M1 MacBooks, you ask? Find out about all the hype.

Darragh Murphy
Darragh Murphy
Editor

Darragh Murphy is fascinated by all things bizarre, which usually leads to assorted coverage varying from washing machines designed for AirPods to the mischievous world of cyberattacks. Whether it's connecting Scar from The Lion King to two-factor authentication or turning his love for gadgets into a fabricated rap battle from 8 Mile, he believes there’s always a quirky spin to be made. With a Master’s degree in Magazine Journalism from The University of Sheffield, along with short stints at Kerrang! and Exposed Magazine, Darragh started his career writing about the tech industry at Time Out Dubai and ShortList Dubai, covering everything from the latest iPhone models and Huawei laptops to massive Esports events in the Middle East. Now, he can be found proudly diving into gaming, gadgets, and letting readers know the joys of docking stations for Laptop Mag.