FFmpeg-Based Media Processing in OpenCloud

[cryinkfly]

OpenCloud can offer a richer media experience by integrating FFmpeg‑based processing—similar to how it’s used in FileBrowser Quantum. FFmpeg provides a robust foundation for handling videos, audio, and images with reliable preview and extraction features.

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🧠 Automatic FFmpeg Discovery and Configuration

OpenCloud should detect an FFmpeg installation automatically if the binaries (ffmpeg and ffprobe) are in the system PATH. If they are not, allow users to specify a custom path in the OpenCloud configuration—making setup flexible across environments.

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🎞️ Core Media Features

1. Video Thumbnail Generation

• Generate thumbnails for video files automatically using FFmpeg. These thumbnails can be cached to improve performance for subsequent loads—a major usability boost when browsing media folders.

2. Subtitle Extraction

• Support extraction of embedded subtitles from video containers. This allows end users to preview or display subtitles directly within OpenCloud. The process is IO‑heavy for large files and may take tens of seconds, so it’s important to implement caching and perhaps allow users to enable/disable this feature per share or user preference.

3. Media Format Conversion

• Start with limited conversion support (e.g., image formats like HEIC for cross‑browser compatibility) as a baseline. Over time, FFmpeg could enable broader conversions—further enhancing accessibility of user content.

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🛠️ Configuration and Requirements

• Installation: FFmpeg and FFprobe must be installed and reachable via PATH or via a configured path setting.
• Docker Support: Provide an official OpenCloud image that already includes FFmpeg to simplify deployments.
• Performance Tuning: Include settings for cache directories and worker counts to manage parallel FFmpeg operations efficiently.

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⚙️ Fallbacks, UX, and Controls

• Provide clear messages when FFmpeg isn’t found or when a media format cannot be processed.
• Allow users to opt in/out of expensive operations like subtitle extraction, especially on shared links or lower‑tier hardware.

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🧩 Why This Matters for OpenCloud

• By integrating FFmpeg, OpenCloud would bring desktop‑like media previews and extraction features to the web. Users benefit from a smoother media browsing experience without relying on external apps or manual processing steps.