There is no doubt that YouTube is the most popular video service on the planet. What is more a matter of debate is whether it is the best, especially because of the issue of privacy. Alternatives there's a lot, with FreeTube on the desktop or Invidious in the lead if we prefer the browser, but Android users tend to opt for NewPipe. Now this popular application is also available for Linux.
There are a few things to note. The first is that it is not designed for desktop use. In fact, that is where I tested it, and it makes no sense at all. The user interface looks ridiculous and the controls are impossible to use. But NewPipe it is a mobile application, and its arrival at Flathub is so that it can be used on this type of touch devices. This is when the app makes all its sense and is a good alternative to the YouTube app or FreeTube.
NewPipe for Linux Mobile
The second point to keep in mind has been explained during the commentary on the first: is only available on Flathub, so if you are looking to use something from native packages, it is not a possibility. Finally, it should be noted that It is not verified, which may simply mean that its developer hasn’t done so yet, or that someone else has uploaded it. Flathub checks what is submitted to it, so it is assumed to be safe — it is marked as “Probably safe” — but you need to know that fact.
If you have a phone with Linux and it supports flatpak packages, you can now use the same YouTube app that reigns on AndroidIf someone wants to use it on the desktop, which is not recommended, to use it you have to simulate gestures, such as clicking and sliding from the left to see the main menu or downwards to close the video and return to the previous page.
Support for YouTube, PeerTube, SoundCloud, Bandcamp and media.ccc.de
En their website we can see what this application is capable of:
- Supports YouTube, PeerTube, SoundCloud, Bandcamp and media.ccc.de
- It is light.
- Can be used offline.
- Improves privacy.
- Possibility of playing in the background.
- Subscriptions, favorites and history.
- Possibility of viewing comments.
NewPipe is an open source application, and is worth a try if you are using it on a mobile device running Linux.