play video clip in windows c++ app

Question

Im currently using wxMediaCtrl to play videos in my app. The api is unfortunately a little buggy, and doesn't playback all media types i need to support (e.g. wmv).

I am wondering if there is an alternative c++ api, that will allow me to do this. I am currently just concerned with supporting windows.

What do people normally use to embedd video in their apps? Also i need to be in control, i.e. tell the video, where to play in time, pause/stop, i dont need any shuttle controls, as i have my own.

Thanks in advance.

Answer 1

Qt uses Phonon for cross-platform media playback. On Windows Phonon utilizes DirectShow, so it can play anything Windows can (.wmv). It has all the capability you mentioned. It's also very easy to implement and use. I recommend highly.

Answer 2

wxMediaControl uses DirectShow on Windows, it should be able to play wmv files. If you can play a media file with GraphStudio, you should be able to play it with wxMediaControl. If not, you need to install the proper video codecs. Have you tried installing FFDShow?

You can try Video Control, and here is a sample on how you can play a video file.

If you want something without DirectShow, you can take a look at VLC ActiveX.

As a word of caution regarding the use of GPL plugins (FFDShow or VLC ActiveX) in non-GPL applications you should read this.