MPD file
An MPD file (Media Presentation Description) is the XML manifest that describes an MPEG-DASH video stream. It lists the available video and audio quality levels, languages, segment locations and timing. A DASH player reads the MPD first, then picks which segments to download based on the viewer's network speed and screen size.
Why it matters
The MPD is how DASH players on Android, smart TVs and browsers learn what to play. Errors in it break playback across those devices. It also carries DRM and language details, so it shapes what paying viewers can access.
How it works
- A packager creates the MPD, describing periods (time ranges) of the presentation.
- Each period contains adaptation sets, one per media type or language, such as video or Spanish audio.
- Each adaptation set lists representations, the quality levels, and where their segments live.
- The player reads the MPD, measures bandwidth and requests segments from the best representation.
MPD vs M3U8: what is the difference?
MPD is the XML manifest for MPEG-DASH, while M3U8 is the text playlist for HLS. Both tell the player which quality levels exist and where segments are. M3U8 is required for native Apple playback, while MPD is common on Android, smart TVs and browsers using DASH players.
How do I play an MPD file?
You play an MPD file with a DASH-capable player such as dash.js, Shaka Player, ExoPlayer (Media3) or VLC. Browsers do not play DASH natively, so web apps use a JavaScript player. DRM-protected MPD streams also need a supported DRM system and a license server.
Where it's used
OTT services and video platforms publish MPD files to stream to Android phones, smart TVs and browsers, listing quality levels, audio languages, subtitles and DRM details for each title.
By the numbers
- The MPEG-DASH standard, ISO/IEC 23009-1, was published in April 2012 and was revised in 2019 and 2022. (Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP (Wikipedia))
