VLC remains perhaps the best way to play video files of any shape or format on a desktop, and the story is similar on mobile devices. With version 1.6, the developers have pushed out some changes to smooth out your video playing experience.

To begin with, VLC now asks for fewer permissions if you're running Android 4.4 or higher. On a tablet running Lollipop, the app asked for access to Device & app history, Photos/Media/Files, and Device ID & call information.

The changelog also lists several speed improvements, such as improved internal decoding speed, a snappier interface, and accelerated video playback for 4K support.

What's New:

  • VLC on Android 1.6 is a major update to VLC
  • We've worked a lot to improve the internal decoding speed and the interface speed, and at the same time, prepare for Android 6.0.
  • The number of permissions needed were reduced, especially for KitKat (4.4) and more recent.
  • We've accelerated the video playback speed, for 4K support.
  • The interface was cleaned and speed up, with more Material look.
  • And a few new features, like USB auto-detection, better audio/video sync or better chapters support.

Here's a link to the Play Store, where the update is already live.