How to Add Subtitles to A Video Permanently on Android

Adding subtitles to a video can enhance the viewing experience for viewers who are deaf or hard of hearing, as well as those who speak different languages. While there are several ways to add subtitles to a video, this blog post will focus on how to add subtitles permanently on Android devices. By following the methods outlined below, you will be able to permanently embed subtitles into a video file, ensuring that the subtitles are always displayed whenever the video is played.

Video Tutorial:

What’s Needed:

Before we dive into the methods of adding subtitles permanently to a video on Android, there are a few things you’ll need:

• A video file that you want to add subtitles to.
• Subtitle files in a compatible format (such as .srt or .ass).
• An Android device with sufficient storage space and a video player that supports subtitle playback.

What Requires Your Focus?

To successfully add subtitles permanently to a video on Android, you should pay attention to the following:

• Choosing the right subtitle file format.
• Ensuring the subtitle file matches the length and timing of the video.
• Using a reliable video editing or subtitle editing app on Android.

Option 1. How to Add Subtitles via VLC for Android:

VLC for Android is a popular video player that also offers subtitle support. Here’s how you can use VLC for Android to add subtitles permanently to a video:

1. Install VLC for Android from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.

2. Open the VLC app and navigate to the video you want to add subtitles to.

3. Tap on the video to start playing it.

4. While the video is playing, tap on the screen to reveal the playback controls.

5. Tap on the three-dot menu icon at the top-right corner of the screen.

6. From the menu that appears, select "Subtitle" and then "Add subtitle file."

7. Browse your device’s storage to locate the subtitle file (.srt or .ass format) you want to add.

8. Select the subtitle file and tap on "Open" or "OK" to add it to the video.

9. The video will now play with the added subtitles permanently embedded.

Pros:
– VLC for Android is a free and open-source app.
– It supports various video formats and subtitle file formats.
– The process of adding subtitles is straightforward.

Cons:
– The interface of VLC for Android may take some time to get used to.
– Some users may experience compatibility issues with certain video or subtitle file formats.

Option 2. How to Add Subtitles via MX Player:

MX Player is another popular video player for Android that offers subtitle support. Here’s how you can use MX Player to add subtitles permanently to a video:

1. Install MX Player from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.

2. Open the MX Player app and navigate to the video you want to add subtitles to.

3. Tap on the video to start playing it.

4. While the video is playing, tap on the screen to reveal the playback controls.

5. Tap on the three-dot menu icon at the top-right corner of the screen.

6. From the menu that appears, select "Subtitle" and then "Open."

7. Browse your device’s storage to locate the subtitle file (.srt or .ass format) you want to add.

8. Select the subtitle file and tap on "OK" to add it to the video.

9. The video will now play with the added subtitles permanently embedded.

Pros:
– MX Player is a feature-rich video player with a user-friendly interface.
– It supports a wide range of video formats and subtitle file formats.
– The process of adding subtitles is simple and quick.

Cons:
– MX Player’s free version contains ads, which may be distracting for some users.
– Certain advanced features require a subscription to the MX Player Pro version.

Option 3. How to Add Subtitles via VideoShow:

VideoShow is a versatile video editing app for Android that also allows you to add subtitles permanently to a video. Here’s how you can use VideoShow to add subtitles:

1. Install VideoShow from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.

2. Open the VideoShow app and tap on the "+" icon to create a new project.

3. Import the video file you want to add subtitles to by tapping on the "Import" button and selecting the video from your device’s storage.

4. Once the video is added to the timeline, tap on the "Subtitle" icon at the bottom of the screen.

5. Tap on "Add Subtitle" and then select "Import" to browse your device’s storage and locate the subtitle file.

6. Choose the subtitle file and tap on "Import" to add it to the video.

7. Adjust the position, size, and duration of the subtitles as needed.

8. Preview the video with the added subtitles by tapping on the play button.

9. Once you’re satisfied, tap on the "Export" button to save the video with the permanently embedded subtitles.

Pros:
– VideoShow offers a wide range of video editing features in addition to subtitle support.
– It provides options to customize the appearance and timing of subtitles.
– The app has a user-friendly interface and intuitive controls.

Cons:
– VideoShow’s free version contains ads and watermarks on exported videos.
– Some advanced features may require a subscription to the VideoShow Pro version.

Option 4. How to Add Subtitles via Timbre:

Timbre is a versatile media editing app for Android that allows you to add subtitles permanently to videos. Here’s how you can use Timbre to add subtitles:

1. Install Timbre from the Google Play Store if you haven’t already.

2. Open the Timbre app and tap on the "Video" icon to select the video file you want to add subtitles to.

3. Once the video is imported, tap on the "Text" icon at the bottom of the screen.

4. Enter the subtitles manually or tap on the "Import" button to browse your device’s storage and locate the subtitle file.

5. Adjust the position, size, color, and font of the subtitles as desired.

6. Preview the video with the added subtitles by tapping on the play button.

7. Once you’re satisfied, tap on the "Save" button to export the video with the permanently embedded subtitles.

Pros:
– Timbre is a lightweight and easy-to-use app for adding subtitles to videos.
– It supports various video and subtitle file formats.
– The app provides options to customize the appearance and timing of subtitles.

Cons:
– Timbre’s free version contains ads, which may be intrusive for some users.
– Some advanced features may require a purchase of the Timbre Pro version.

Why Can’t I Find the Right Video Player or Editor App?

While VLC, MX Player, VideoShow, and Timbre are popular choices for adding subtitles permanently to videos on Android, they may not be suitable for everyone. If you can’t find the right app for your needs or face compatibility issues, here are three alternative solutions to consider:

1. Use a video editing software on a computer: If you have access to a computer, you can use video editing software like Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut Pro to add subtitles permanently to videos. These software offer more advanced features and greater control over the subtitle placement and appearance.

2. Convert the video file format: If the video player or editor app you’re using doesn’t support subtitle embedding, you can try converting the video file to a different format that does support subtitles. There are online video converters available that can help you with this process.

3. Seek professional help: If you’re struggling to add subtitles permanently to a video on your own, you can consider hiring a professional video editor or subtitling service. They have the expertise and tools to ensure accurate and high-quality subtitle integration.

Implications and Recommendations:

Here are some implications and recommendations to consider when adding subtitles permanently to a video on Android:

1. Choose subtitles wisely: Make sure the subtitles are accurate, well-timed, and easy to read. Consider using professional subtitle services or proofreading the subtitles yourself before embedding them.

2. Test subtitle compatibility: Before sharing or distributing the video, test it on multiple devices and video players to ensure the subtitles are displayed correctly. Different video players may handle subtitle embedding differently.

3. Optimize video size and quality: Adding subtitles permanently to a video may increase its file size. Consider compressing the video or adjusting the resolution to maintain optimal playback performance.

The Bottom Line:

Adding subtitles permanently to a video on Android can greatly improve accessibility and reach a wider audience. Whether you choose to use VLC, MX Player, VideoShow, or Timbre, it’s important to select a method that suits your needs and preferences. Experiment with different apps and techniques to find the one that works best for you.

5 FAQs about Adding Subtitles Permanently on Android:

Q1: Can I add subtitles permanently to any video file format?

A1: Most video player and editor apps support popular video file formats like MP4, AVI, and MKV. However, the availability of subtitle support may vary depending on the app and the video file format. It’s best to check the app’s documentation or support resources to confirm compatibility.

Q2: Can I edit or remove the subtitles after adding them permanently?

A2: Once subtitles are permanently added to a video, it becomes challenging to edit or remove them without further video editing. It is recommended to thoroughly review and proofread the subtitles before embedding them into the video.

Q3: Are there any limitations on the length or number of subtitles I can add?

A3: The length and number of subtitles you can add depend on the app you’re using and the video file format. Generally, most apps support multiple subtitles and accommodate a wide range of lengths. However, extremely long or numerous subtitles may affect the overall viewing experience.

Q4: Are there any legal implications of adding subtitles to videos?

A4: Adding subtitles to videos for personal use or non-commercial purposes is generally allowed. However, if you plan to distribute or publicly display the subtitled video, especially for commercial purposes, it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary rights and permissions for the video and the subtitles.

Q5: Can I add subtitles in multiple languages to a video?

A5: Yes, most subtitle-supported apps allow you to add subtitles in multiple languages to a video. This can be helpful for reaching a more diverse audience. However, it’s important to ensure that the subtitles are properly synchronized and don’t overlap, especially if they appear simultaneously in different languages.