Video Sniffing
Detect and download streaming videos from HLS and DASH sources.
FlowPick automatically detects video content from various streaming protocols and direct video files.
Supported Video Formats
| Format | Extension | Description |
|---|---|---|
| HLS | .m3u8 | HTTP Live Streaming, most common for web video |
| DASH | .mpd | Dynamic Adaptive Streaming over HTTP |
| MP4 | .mp4 | Standard video container |
| WebM | .webm | Open video format |
| FLV | .flv | Flash Video (legacy) |
How Video Detection Works
- Network Monitoring: FlowPick monitors network requests for video content
- Manifest Parsing: For HLS/DASH, the manifest is parsed to find available streams
- Quality Detection: Available quality levels are identified
- Resource Listing: Videos appear in the popup for user selection
HLS (M3U8) Streams
HLS is the most common streaming protocol on the web. FlowPick handles HLS streams seamlessly:
- Automatic Detection: M3U8 manifests are detected automatically
- Quality Selection: Choose from available resolutions
- Fragment Merging: TS fragments are merged into a single MP4 file
- No FFmpeg Needed: All processing happens in the browser
For best results, let the video start playing before opening FlowPick. This ensures the stream manifest is loaded.
DASH (MPD) Streams
DASH is another popular streaming protocol, especially for premium content:
- Manifest Parsing: MPD files are parsed for stream information
- Adaptive Bitrate: Select your preferred quality level
- Segment Merging: Segments are combined into a playable file
Direct Video Files
For direct video files (MP4, WebM):
- Instant Detection: Videos are detected as soon as they load
- Direct Download: No processing needed, direct download
- Size Preview: File size is shown when available
Troubleshooting
Video not detected?
- Play the video for a few seconds to trigger detection
- Refresh the page and try again
- Check if the video uses a supported protocol
Download fails?
- Ensure stable internet connection
- Try a lower quality option
- Check available disk space