---
title: Downloads and online quality
description: Choose a download folder, manage direct and yt-dlp jobs, and configure online format preferences.
---

mpvRx separates direct-file downloads from extractor-backed downloads while presenting both in one Downloads screen.

## Choose a destination

The location card shows the active download folder. Use Android's folder picker to grant persistent read/write access to another directory, or reset to the app's default location.

An invalid or revoked document-tree permission prevents saving. Re-select the folder after moving storage, clearing the file provider, or restoring settings onto another device.

## Download routes

| Source | Typical route |
| --- | --- |
| Direct media file | Direct download service |
| HLS (`.m3u8`) or DASH (`.mpd`) | yt-dlp download engine |
| Supported website URL | yt-dlp extraction and download |
| Local/network loopback proxy | Playback only; not passed to yt-dlp |

The Downloads screen separates active and completed direct downloads, plus active and completed yt-dlp jobs. Completed playable files can be opened immediately or deleted after confirmation.

Android 13 and newer require notification permission for visible progress notifications. The download itself can still depend on foreground-service and vendor background restrictions.

## Online quality controls

Extractor-backed playback and downloads can filter formats by:

- Video codec
- Maximum or preferred resolution
- Frame rate
- HDR preference
- Container
- Audio bitrate

A strict combination can eliminate every available format. Start with Automatic, then constrain one dimension at a time.

| Goal | Practical starting point |
| --- | --- |
| Broad compatibility | H.264/AVC, SDR, MP4, automatic FPS |
| Efficient modern video | AV1 or VP9 when the device decodes it in hardware |
| High refresh content | Allow source FPS; do not force 60 when the source is 24/30 |
| Audio-focused download | Prefer audio-only and set the needed bitrate |
| Small file | Lower resolution before forcing an unusually low bitrate |

## Failures and recovery

- **No format found:** clear codec/container/HDR filters.
- **Extraction broke recently:** the website may have changed; update mpvRx and retry.
- **Download stops in background:** review notification and battery restrictions.
- **File cannot be opened:** confirm completion, extension, and storage permission.
- **Authenticated URL fails:** do not post the URL publicly; reproduce with a non-private source if possible.

:::warning
Only download media you are authorized to save. Website support does not override copyright, account, or service terms.
:::