Question 1

How do I add HLS.js to a custom HTML5 video player?

Accepted Answer

Include the HLS.js script from a CDN, check for support with Hls.isSupported(), then create a new Hls instance, load your .m3u8 source, and attach it to a video element. The README provides embedding examples with code snippets.

Question 2

HLS.js vs native HLS in Safari: which should I use?

Accepted Answer

Use HLS.js for cross-browser consistency and advanced features like adaptive streaming on non-Safari browsers. For Safari on iOS/macOS, native HLS is often sufficient, but HLS.js can provide a unified player experience if needed.

Question 3

Does HLS.js support HEVC (H.265) video codec?

Accepted Answer

Yes, HLS.js supports H.265 elementary streams, but compatibility depends on the browser's runtime environment—not all browsers support HEVC, so check your target platforms.

Question 4

How to handle DRM like Widevine with HLS.js?

Accepted Answer

Configure the EME controller in HLS.js with the appropriate key system and licenses for FairPlay, PlayReady, or Widevine, but note that DRM support is limited to fragmented MP4 segments.

Question 5

What are common errors when using HLS.js and how to fix them?

Accepted Answer

Common issues include CORS errors, unsupported stream formats, or MSE failures. Ensure CORS headers are set, use the built-in analytics to debug, and refer to the error recovery mechanisms in the API docs.

Question 6

How to reduce the bundle size of HLS.js in my project?

Accepted Answer

Use the light build of HLS.js, which excludes features like alternate audio, subtitles, and EME, significantly reducing file size as described in the build configuration options.

hls.js

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