Windows Media Player 12

Windows Media Player 12 is the latest version of Microsoft's official media player, which comes bundled with Windows 7. The different from version 11 are some slight changes in design but if you haven't used Windows Media Player for a while, you'll be surprised to find a full multimedia suite.

Windows Media Player 12 maintains the same design of the previous version, featuring only small changes in color and toolbar layout. The program now makes a clear difference between the Library mode and the Now Playing mode, where you can see the currently active song, video or playlist, along with visualization effects.

The Media Guide in Windows Media Player 12 is Microsoft's equivalent to the Apple Store. This feature leads you to a variety of online store to buy music, but bear in mind that the number of available stores depends on your country. The Media Guide button also gives you access to dozens of online radio stations. One thing that Windows Media Player 12 is still missing though is support for podcasts.

Menus in Windows Media Player 12 have been reduced to the minimum, meaning that some commands are hidden and you'll have to hit the Alt key to show them. You can use the left pane to browse the different categories in your media library and the center area displays whatever item is currently selected or playing. On the right side, three buttons placed in the upper area enable you to create lists for playing, burning and syncing respectively.

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