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Windows Media Player (Windows XP) logo

Windows Media Player (Windows XP)

By Microsoft Free Editors' Rating

Editors' Review

Download.com Staff Feb 27, 2009

The de facto standard for Windows media playback is Windows Media Player. This version--9--is getting up in age and is best used for older systems. The interface is familiar with a simple menu of commands, a central playback window, and an information bar. Standard audio playback functions are easy to access. The graphic equalizer features 22 preset options, and the usual slider bar will be familiar to 1970s rock fans. The large varieties of visualizations are easy to implement and are sure to amuse those who remember the 1960s. Video playback in any of the included skins is adequate. Controls, for the most part, are easy to access, though some skins stretch the concept of user-friendly. Copying to and copying from CDs works, but don't expect most options available from current players. The Internet radio player searches station listings by genre or location. Despite the lack of newer features, users with older systems or those who favor familiar controls will find that the free Windows Media Player 9 fits like an old, sequined glove.

Full Specifications

What's new in version 9

General

Release December 5, 2008
Date Added January 21, 2003
Version 9

Operating Systems

Operating Systems Windows, Windows XP
Additional Requirements Windows XP

Popularity

Total Downloads 5,048,277
Downloads Last Week 125
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User Reviews

3.3/5
313 User Votes
5 Star
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3 Star
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1 Star

Developer's Description

Windows Media Player allows you to play audio and video files locally stored and streamed from the Internet. It includes a visualizer, a jukebox, a media guide, an Internet radio tuner, a CD burner, and support for countless media formats and various external devices. In keeping with modern trends, Microsoft has added features such as Smart Jukebox technology that features audio CD burning with volume leveling. Windows Media Player can automatically organize your media files, even if you move them around. You can rate each song you play or let the program assign ratings based on the number of times each song is played, then create playlists of your favorite music. Another feature, Auto Info, can automatically fix or add album details (tags) to your MP3 and WMA files such as artist or album name, year, composer, or track number. Additionally, you can toggle between a full-screen interface and a miniplayer mode that docks the player to your taskbar.
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