Cine is a newly developed MPV-based video player for Linux, tailored specifically for the GNOME desktop environment. Designed with simplicity in mind, Cine presents a clean user interface that utilizes the entire screen for video display without distractions. Player controls appear as overlays and automatically fade when not in use, enhancing the cinematic experience.
The player incorporates a full set of features, including the ability to select audio and subtitle tracks, manage playback controls, and utilize a playlist. An advanced options menu allows users to customize subtitle appearance, including font, color, and size, which is particularly useful for standalone subtitle files. Additionally, the preferences panel provides options for hardware-accelerated video decoding and volume normalization, making it user-friendly for various video formats and playback conditions.
Performance tests indicate that Cine outperforms other GStreamer-based players like Totem on older hardware, thanks to its efficient use of the MPV backend, which excels in handling H.265 hardware acceleration. Although Cine doesn’t attempt to offer the wide-ranging capabilities of VLC, its focus is on playing local video files smoothly and without hassle.
While the Linux community might question the necessity of another video player, Cine’s introduction is justified by the desire for choice and personalization in software. Each new application contributes to a diverse ecosystem, fostering innovation and offering alternatives that can better meet individual user preferences.
Cine is available for installation via Flathub, making it accessible across most modern Linux distributions. For those seeking a streamlined video player that integrates well with GNOME, Cine offers a compelling option worthy of consideration.