VLC Media Player Download – PC & Android (2026)
Looking for a VLC Media Player download? The button above downloads the VLC APK for Android phones and tablets. If you use Windows, macOS, Linux, iPhone, or iPad, follow the platform instructions below.
Choose the Right VLC Version
VLC is available for Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iPhone, and iPad, and the installation method differs on each. The download button at the top of this page is for the Android APK only.
Standard VLC is free and open-source, so basic media playback does not require a subscription. Before installing on any device, check the platform, version, and download source.
VLC Media Player Information
| App Information | Details |
|---|---|
| App Name | VLC Media Player |
| Developer | VideoLAN |
| Version | Varies by platform |
| File Size | Varies by version and device |
| Android Version | Depends on the current release |
| Category | Media Player |
| License | Free and Open Source |
| Platforms | Windows, macOS, Linux, Android, iOS |
VLC for Windows, macOS and Linux
The desktop versions use separate packages, so choose the one made for your operating system.
Windows
VLC Media Player for Windows is installed with the Windows installer. Open it after the download finishes and follow the setup instructions.
macOS
Choose the macOS package that matches your Mac. After downloading, open the package and complete the installation as you would for other Mac apps.
Linux
VLC is available through the software repositories of many Linux distributions. The exact method depends on your distribution, so use its software manager or the appropriate package method.
Looking for VLC for PC? Choose the desktop version. An Android APK is not designed to run directly on Windows or macOS.
VLC for Android, iPhone and iPad
Android
Android users can install VLC from Google Play, which is preferable for most people because it provides a normal installation and update process.
An APK is the Android application package used to install an app manually. It can be useful if you have a specific reason to install outside Google Play. If you choose this method, check the source, version, file details, and requested permissions before installing.
iPhone and iPad
Get VLC from the Apple App Store. Android APK files cannot be installed on iOS devices.
Features, file sizes, and system requirements can vary between Android, iOS, and desktop releases.
How to Install VLC Media Player
The steps depend on your device. Follow the section that matches your platform.
Windows, macOS or Linux
- Select your operating system and download the matching package.
- Open the downloaded installer or package.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Launch VLC when the installation is complete.
Android (Google Play)
- Open Google Play and search for VLC Media Player.
- Check that the developer is VideoLAN.
- Tap Install.
- Open VLC and review the requested permissions.
Android (APK from this page)
- Tap Download VLC APK for Android and wait for the APK file to finish downloading.
- Open the file from your notifications or your Downloads folder.
- If Android asks, allow your browser to install apps from this source. You can turn this setting off again afterwards.
- Tap Install, then open VLC and review the requested permissions.
Check the source of any APK before opening it, and avoid modified or repackaged versions.
iPhone or iPad
- Open the Apple App Store and search for VLC Media Player.
- Check the app information and developer.
- Tap Get and complete the installation.
- Open VLC from your home screen.
Is VLC Media Player Safe and Free?
VLC is free and open-source software developed by VideoLAN, and basic playback does not require a subscription. As with any app, safety depends on where the file comes from. Copies from unknown sources may have been modified and may differ from the original release.
The APK offered on this page has not been confirmed as an official VideoLAN release. If you want certainty, install VLC from Google Play or the App Store.
Before installing:
- Prefer an official app store whenever possible.
- Check that the developer name is VideoLAN.
- For a manual APK install, check the source, version, file details, and requested permissions.
- Avoid versions that promise “premium” or “unlocked” features. The standard VLC app does not require a paid upgrade.
- Keep VLC updated to receive the latest fixes and improvements.
- Decline any extra software offered during installation.
Close any download page that shows misleading buttons, unexpected redirects, or offers for unrelated software. Installing VLC does not require additional software.
Conclusion
The right VLC Media Player download depends on your device: the desktop package for Windows, macOS, or Linux, the App Store for iPhone and iPad, and Google Play or the Android APK for Android. Whichever you choose, check the source before installing and follow the standard installation steps for your platform.