XSPF File Extension

What is XSPF file?

XSPF (short for XML Shareable Playlist Format) is a playlist file format. XSPF files don’t store actual audio data, only information related to playlist in the form of XML markup that contains references to the audio files in the playlist.

Similarities with M3U and M3U8 formats

XSPF file format is in many aspects similar to M3U and M3U8 formats. XSPF playlists are, however, more universal when it comes to mobility and compatibilty across various computer machines and multimedia devices. In order to XSPF playlist to be properly recognized the file must be placed in folder with the same file structure as the audio tracks it references.

XSPF’s text format

Because XSPF file structure is based on XML text format, it can be easily viewed using any text editor. Users can also manually search the playlist file for the referenced audio file locations.

Programs which support XSPF file extension

The list that follows enumerates programs compatible with XSPF files, divided into 3 categories based on operating system on which they are available. Files with XSPF suffix can be copied to any mobile device or system platform, but it may not be possible to open them properly on target system.

Updated: 01/24/2020

How to open file with XSPF extension?

Being unable to open files with XSPF extension can be have various origins. What is important, all common issues related to files with XSPF extension can be resolved by the users themselves. The process is quick and doesn’t involve an IT expert. The following is a list of guidelines that will help you identify and solve file-related problems.

Step 1. Get the VLC media player

The main and most frequent cause precluding users form opening XSPF files is that no program that can handle XSPF files is installed on user’s system. This issue can be addressed by downloading and installing VLC media player or different compatible program, such as Audacious, MediaMonkey. On the top of the page a list that contains all programs grouped based on operating systems supported can be found. One of the most risk-free method of downloading software is using links provided by official distributors. Visit VLC media player website and download the installer.

Step 2. Update VLC media player to the latest version

If you already have VLC media player installed on your systems and XSPF files are still not opened properly, check if you have the latest version of the software. Sometimes software developers introduce new formats in place of that already supports along with newer versions of their applications. This can be one of the causes why XSPF files are not compatible with VLC media player. The latest version of VLC media player should support all file formats that where compatible with older versions of the software.

Step 3. Set the default application to open XSPF files to VLC media player

If the issue has not been solved in the previous step, you should associate XSPF files with latest version of VLC media player you have installed on your device. The next step should pose no problems. The procedure is straightforward and largely system-independent

The procedure to change the default program in Windows

• Right-click the XSPF file and choose Open with option
• Click Choose another app and then select More apps option
• The last step is to select Look for another app on this PC option supply the directory path to the folder where VLC media player is installed. Now all that is left is to confirm your choice by selecting Always use this app to open XSPF files and clicking OK.

The procedure to change the default program in Mac OS

• By clicking right mouse button on the selected XSPF file open the file menu and choose Information
• Open the Open with section by clicking its name
• Select VLC media player and click Change for all...
• Finally, a This change will be applied to all files with XSPF extension message should pop-up. Click Continue button in order to confirm your choice.

Step 4. Ensure that the XSPF file is complete and free of errors

Should the problem still occur after following steps 1-3, check if the XSPF file is valid. Problems with opening the file may arise due to various reasons.

1. Verify that the XSPF in question is not infected with a computer virus

If the XSPF is indeed infected, it is possible that the malware is blocking it from opening. Immediately scan the file using an antivirus tool or scan the whole system to ensure the whole system is safe. If the scanner detected that the XSPF file is unsafe, proceed as instructed by the antivirus program to neutralize the threat.

2. Check whether the file is corrupted or damaged

Did you receive the XSPF file in question from a different person? Ask him/her to send it one more time. The file might have been copied erroneously and the data lost integrity, which precludes from accessing the file. It could happen the the download process of file with XSPF extension was interrupted and the file data is defective. Download the file again from the same source.

3. Verify whether your account has administrative rights

There is a possibility that the file in question can only be accessed by users with sufficient system privileges. Log out of your current account and log in to an account with sufficient access privileges. Then open the XSPF Playlist Format file.

4. Check whether your system can handle VLC media player

The operating systems may note enough free resources to run the application that support XSPF files. Close all running programs and try opening the XSPF file.

5. Ensure that you have the latest drivers and system updates and patches installed

Latest versions of programs and drivers may help you solve problems with XSPF Playlist Format files and ensure security of your device and operating system. It may be the case that the XSPF files work properly with updated software that addresses some system bugs.

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