FFMPEG commands isn’t working in Android Q

FFMPEG Commands Not Working in Android Q

Android Q introduced significant changes to how applications interact with media, impacting the functionality of FFMPEG commands. This article explores the challenges faced and provides solutions to ensure compatibility with Android Q.

Understanding the Issue

Prior to Android Q, FFMPEG commands could directly access and manipulate media files using standard system calls. However, Android Q tightened security restrictions, limiting access to media files without explicit user permission.

Key Changes in Android Q

• Scoped Storage: Apps can only access files within their designated storage space. This limits direct access to files in other app directories.
• Media Content Provider: A central authority managing access to media files. Apps need to use the Media Content Provider API for accessing and modifying media.

Troubleshooting FFMPEG Commands

Common Error Scenarios

• Permission Denied: The most common error encountered is “Permission denied” when trying to access or manipulate media files.
• Invalid File Path: FFMPEG commands using old file paths might not work due to scoped storage restrictions.
• Media Content Provider Integration: FFMPEG commands may not integrate seamlessly with the Media Content Provider, causing issues.

Solutions

• Request Permissions: Ensure your application requests necessary permissions, including READ_EXTERNAL_STORAGE and WRITE_EXTERNAL_STORAGE. Use the appropriate APIs for requesting permissions in Android Q.
• Media Content Provider: Use the Media Content Provider API to access media files instead of direct file paths. This involves:
  • Retrieving content URI using MediaStore.
  • Using the content URI as the input/output for FFMPEG commands.
• File Copying: If direct access is required, temporarily copy the media file to your app’s directory. Make sure to delete the copied file after usage to avoid storage clutter.
• FFMPEG Builds: Use FFMPEG builds specifically compiled for Android Q. Some builds might have better compatibility with Android Q’s media handling mechanisms.

Example: Converting a Video using Media Content Provider

Code:

import android.provider.MediaStore;
import android.net.Uri;
// ... other imports

public class MainActivity {

    public void convertVideo() {
        // Get the content URI of the video
        Uri inputUri = MediaStore.Video.Media.EXTERNAL_CONTENT_URI;

        // Create a temporary file in your app's directory
        File outputFile = new File(getExternalFilesDir(null), "output.mp4"); 

        // Build FFMPEG command using content URI for input
        String command = String.format("ffmpeg -i %s -c:v libx264 -c:a copy %s",
                inputUri.toString(), outputFile.getAbsolutePath());

        // Execute the command
        // ... (use a suitable FFMPEG wrapper library for execution)
    }
}

Comparison Table:

Conclusion

FFMPEG commands require adjustments for compatibility with Android Q’s enhanced media security. By understanding the changes and implementing the recommended solutions, developers can successfully utilize FFMPEG within their Android Q applications.