Media Browser 2.2.8 (codename Orion) Out Now

Yesterday also saw the release of the new version of the Media Browser – codename Orion.

Media Browser is a media aggregator plugin for Media Center that takes your recorded, digital, or ripped media and presents it in a simple, easyto use interface. Media Browser prides itself on delivering a fast, intuitive, mediarich experience for the whole family.

Highlights

• Automatic metadata retrieval
• Streaming latest online trailers
• Media bookmarking (resume play)
• Support for external players
• Vodcast support (video rss feeds)
• Third party plug-in architecture
• Automatic updates
• Custom view layouts
• Multiple themes
• Create random / full folder playlists

I love Media Browser – I have been using it for ages, and frankly I wouldn’t run Media Center without it!

Here is a brief run down of some of the updates – you really want to check out the complete changelog for more information:

Highlights:

• Extended MediaInfo support with improved performance, detection and flexible custom image management through ImagesByName. Have a look here for details.
• Various fixes for the High Quality Thumbnail plugin, improving performance and reliability
• Default theme has been improved. Some new features have been added and various bugs have been squashed
• Actor roles are now supported for TV Series through both Internet Providers as local metadata.
• Internet Providers now fetch studios for movies and tv shows
• Media files can now be deleted properly right after they have been played
• The configurator interface has been cleaned up and offers some new options including additional extensions for external players

Complete Changelog:

To see a full list of the tracker topics for these changes, have a look here.

---

Important Notes:

• All Media Browser supporters will now have access to 3 very awesome plugins: Trailers, CoverArt and the pearl theme, you should get an email with your supporter key in the next few days.
• Several plug-ins will require upgrades to work with this version. Be sure and check all your installed plug-ins for available updates.
• It’s recommended to clear the cache after updating to Orion. Media Browser will likely rebuild anyway and SQLite users can benefit from a new optimized SQLite database file

You can download the latest version from here.

You also might want to download and use Media Center Master as well with Media Browser – they work great together.

Do you use these? If not, what do you use and why?