What’s new in this update
The new Media Player for Windows 11 introduces a redesigned user interface, improved performance, and enhanced features such as support for 4K video playback and Dolby Atmos audio. However, the increased RAM usage and codec charges are the most notable changes. The new Media Player uses around 350MB of RAM, compared to the previous version’s 100MB. This increase in RAM usage may be a concern for users with lower-end devices or those who rely on free video playback. The official Microsoft changelog notes that the new Media Player is designed to provide a more modern and streamlined media playback experience, but at the cost of increased memory usage and potential additional fees.
The new Media Player also charges for popular video codecs, which could be an added expense for users. The codecs are available for purchase through the Microsoft Store, and the prices vary depending on the codec and the device. For example, the H.264 codec costs around ₹500, while the H.265 codec costs around ₹1,000. The prices may vary depending on the region and the device. In India, users can purchase the codecs through the Microsoft Store using popular payment methods such as Paytm or Google Pay.
The increased RAM usage and codec charges may incentivize users to upgrade to the modern Media Player, but at the cost of increased memory usage and potential additional fees. The new Media Player is designed to provide a more modern and streamlined media playback experience, but users should be aware of the potential drawbacks before upgrading. According to Microsoft, the new Media Player is part of the company’s efforts to provide a more modern and streamlined media playback experience for Windows 11 users.
What’s fixed
The new Media Player for Windows 11 fixes several bugs and issues that were present in the previous version, including issues with video playback, audio playback, and subtitle support. The official Microsoft blog notes that the new Media Player includes several bug fixes and performance improvements, including fixes for issues with video playback, audio playback, and subtitle support. However, there are no known security CVEs addressed in this update. The new Media Player also includes several performance improvements, including improved support for 4K video playback and Dolby Atmos audio.
What this means for you
The new Media Player for Windows 11 may have a significant impact on users, particularly those with lower-end devices or those who rely on free video playback. The increased RAM usage and codec charges may require users to upgrade their devices or pay for additional codecs. In India, users may need to consider the data costs associated with downloading and installing the new Media Player, particularly if they are using a mobile data connection. For example, the download size for the new Media Player is around 500MB, which may be a concern for users with limited data plans. Users can check their data usage and plan through their mobile operator’s website or app, such as Jio or Airtel.
In the US, users may need to consider the cost of additional codecs, particularly if they are using a device that does not support the new Media Player’s default codecs. The prices for the codecs vary depending on the codec and the device, but users can purchase them through the Microsoft Store. Users can also check the Microsoft Store for any available discounts or promotions.
How to get this update
To get the new Media Player for Windows 11, users can check for updates through the Windows Update settings. The update is available for all Windows 11 users, and it can be installed manually through the Microsoft Store. To install the update, users can follow these steps:
- Open the Windows Update settings.
- Click on “Check for updates.”
- If the update is available, click on “Download and install.”
- Follow the installation prompts to complete the installation.
Alternatively, users can download the update manually through the Microsoft Store. To do this, users can follow these steps:
- Open the Microsoft Store.
- Search for “Media Player.”
- Click on the “Media Player” app.
- Click on “Install” to download and install the update.
Known issues (if any)
There are no known issues with the new Media Player for Windows 11, but users may experience some bugs or issues during the installation process. If users experience any issues, they can contact Microsoft support for assistance.
Frequently asked questions
What is the new Media Player for Windows 11?
The new Media Player for Windows 11 is a redesigned media playback app that uses 3.5 times more RAM than its predecessor and charges for popular video codecs.
How much does the new Media Player cost?
The new Media Player is free to download and install, but it charges for popular video codecs. The prices for the codecs vary depending on the codec and the device.
Is the new Media Player available for all Windows 11 users?
Yes, the new Media Player is available for all Windows 11 users, and it can be installed manually through the Microsoft Store.
Can I still use the old Media Player?
Yes, users can still use the old Media Player, but it may not have the same features and performance as the new Media Player.
How do I install the new Media Player?
To install the new Media Player, users can check for updates through the Windows Update settings or download it manually through the Microsoft Store.
Final thoughts
The new Media Player for Windows 11 is a significant update that may have a significant impact on users, particularly those with lower-end devices or those who rely on free video playback. While the increased RAM usage and codec charges may be a concern, the new Media Player provides a more modern and streamlined media playback experience. Users should weigh the pros and cons before upgrading to the new Media Player, and consider the data costs and potential additional fees associated with the update. Overall, the new Media Player is a significant improvement over the previous version, and it is worth considering for users who want a more modern and streamlined media playback experience.
