BubbleUPnP

Stream, control, and cast your media files with BubbleUPnP, a dynamic Android application that brings your multimedia content to the forefront.

Overview

BubbleUPnP is a versatile Android application designed to transform your device into a multimedia powerhouse. It enables users to stream their media content across various devices in a home network. Additionally, BubbleUPnP can control and cast media files from your Android device to various UPnP/DLNA, Chromecast, Smart TV, and other compatible devices.

Interface

The interface of BubbleUPnP underwent significant changes in an update on August 24. The layout, specifically in horizontal mode, was altered, drawing mixed reactions from users. The top bar now includes the "Playing to...", renderer icon, and three-dot menu, which, according to some users, commandeers a substantial amount of space. This change decreases the cover size and disrupts the previous symmetry of the interface.

The tab icons, previously located at the bottom, are now positioned on the left with an increased margin. This alteration has been criticized for contributing to the reduced cover size and disrupting the interface's symmetry. Conversely, the vertical interface has received praise for its improvements, indicating that the changes may be more favorable for users who primarily operate their devices in portrait mode.

Utility and Performance

BubbleUPnP has been lauded for its utility, offering a robust set of features that facilitate media streaming and control. However, some users have reported issues when transitioning the app to a new device. For instance, the app reportedly failed to start playing tracks for the local renderer on a new device. It's important to note, however, that the issue was resolved after clearing the app data a few times, hinting at possible migration-related problems.

The application seems to perform well overall, with the minor hiccups being solvable by clearing the application data. This suggests a robust and reliable system that can handle a variety of multimedia tasks.

Conclusion

BubbleUPnP is a comprehensive multimedia control and streaming app for Android. It offers an impressive range of features, allowing users to cast and control media files across multiple devices. While the interface changes have been met with mixed reviews, the overall functionality and performance of the app remain solid and reliable. Despite minor issues related to device migration, BubbleUPnP remains a powerful tool for enhancing your multimedia experience.

Pros

• Comprehensive media streaming and control features
• Supports a variety of devices
• Improved vertical interface
• Reliable performance

Cons

• Interface changes have been criticized, particularly in horizontal mode
• Potential issues with device migration

3.6.9.1

- fixed search results not displaying exact matches (regression)

- fixed a few rare and obscure crashes

3.6.9

- updated targetSdkVersion to 31 (Android 12)

- updated some libraries used to build the app

- a few bug fixes and improvements (detailed changelog available in app)