While efficient video playback has long been possible in the embedded Linux world, desktop applications have been lagging behind other platforms. In the last years, and 2023 specifically, various developments made it possible to let the two worlds converge, offering various advantages for both.

The talk aims to give a short overview over recent developments in various components such as Gstreamer, Gnome, Gtk and Chromium that make video playback either more efficient - or efficient playback easier to use, including short demos. And, if time allows, give a short outlook what to expect regarding HDR playback.