To download movies for airplane viewing, you’ll primarily need to leverage streaming service download features, utilize digital movie store purchases, or explore digital media management software. Ensure you download content ahead of time while connected to a reliable Wi-Fi network and that your device has adequate storage and battery life for your flight.
Preparing for Takeoff: A Pre-Flight Entertainment Strategy
Long flights can be tedious, and in-flight entertainment, while sometimes available, isn’t always reliable or to your taste. This is where having your own library of downloaded movies becomes a lifesaver. However, simply hitting “download” on your favorite streaming app requires careful planning and consideration. You need to account for available storage space, battery life, download restrictions, and even the specific file formats your device can handle.
Mastering the Art of Download: Methods & Tools
Downloading movies for offline viewing boils down to a few core methods, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages.
Leveraging Streaming Service Downloads
Most major streaming services, including Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+, Hulu, and HBO Max, offer download features that allow subscribers to save content for offline playback. This is the most convenient option for those already subscribed to these platforms.
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Netflix: Netflix allows downloads on most of its content, with some titles having restrictions based on regional licensing agreements. To download, simply look for the download icon (a downward-pointing arrow) next to a movie or episode. Note that downloaded content has an expiry date, typically ranging from 7 to 30 days.
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Amazon Prime Video: Amazon Prime Video offers a similar download functionality. Prime subscribers can download eligible movies and TV shows to their devices. Like Netflix, content has expiry dates, and some titles might be unavailable for download due to licensing.
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Disney+: Disney+ also enables downloads for a vast majority of its content. Downloads are generally available for 30 days and can be extended.
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Hulu: Hulu offers downloads on specific plans. Subscribers need to have the “Hulu (No Ads)” plan to download movies and TV shows for offline viewing.
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HBO Max: HBO Max allows downloads on most of its content, and it often has a longer expiration period than other streaming services.
Purchasing Digital Movies
Another option is to purchase digital movies through online stores like Apple TV, Google Play Movies & TV, and Amazon Prime Video. These purchases are yours to keep and can be downloaded to your devices. This method offers more flexibility than streaming service downloads, as you own the content and are not subject to the same expiry dates or content removal.
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Apple TV: Purchasing movies through Apple TV grants you access to your library across all your Apple devices. Downloads are stored within the Apple TV app and can be deleted and redownloaded as needed.
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Google Play Movies & TV: Google Play Movies & TV, now integrated into YouTube, offers a vast selection of movies to purchase and download. You can watch your purchases on your Android devices, computers, and compatible smart TVs.
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Amazon Prime Video (Purchase): As mentioned earlier, Amazon Prime Video not only allows streaming but also offers movies for purchase. These purchased movies can be downloaded and watched offline.
Using Digital Media Management Software
For those who own physical copies of movies, ripping them to digital formats using software like MakeMKV and Handbrake allows for greater control and flexibility. This method involves converting DVDs or Blu-rays into digital files that can be stored and transferred to your devices. However, it’s crucial to be aware of copyright laws in your region and ensure you are legally entitled to copy the content.
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MakeMKV: This software allows you to rip DVDs and Blu-rays to MKV format, preserving the original video and audio quality.
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Handbrake: Handbrake is a powerful video transcoder that can convert video files from one format to another. It can be used to compress ripped MKV files to reduce their size for easier storage and playback on your devices.
Optimizing for the Skies: Storage, Battery & Compatibility
Downloading movies is only half the battle. Ensuring your devices are adequately prepared for the flight is equally important.
Storage Space: The Final Frontier
Movies can consume significant storage space, especially in high definition. Before downloading, check the available storage on your device and ensure it’s sufficient for the movies you plan to download. Consider deleting unused apps, photos, and videos to free up space. External storage devices can also be used if your device supports them.
Battery Life: Powering Through the Flight
Long flights require ample battery life. Make sure your devices are fully charged before boarding. Consider bringing a portable power bank to extend your device’s battery life if necessary. Additionally, reducing screen brightness and turning off unnecessary features like Wi-Fi and Bluetooth can help conserve power.
Compatibility: File Formats and Codecs
Not all devices support all video file formats. Before downloading or converting movies, ensure your device can play the chosen format. The most common formats include MP4, MOV, and MKV. If necessary, use a video converter to convert files to a compatible format.
FAQs: Your In-Flight Entertainment Questions Answered
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify the process of downloading movies for airplane viewing:
1. How much data does downloading a movie typically use?
A standard definition (SD) movie might use between 1-2 GB of data, while a high-definition (HD) movie can easily consume 3-5 GB or more.
2. Are there any legal restrictions on downloading movies?
Downloading copyrighted movies without permission is illegal in most countries. Ensure you are either downloading from a legitimate streaming service or purchasing the content legally.
3. How long do downloaded movies from streaming services remain available?
This varies by service and title. Netflix and Amazon Prime Video typically offer downloads for 7-30 days, while Disney+ often provides a longer period. Always check the expiration date within the app.
4. Can I share downloaded movies with others?
No. Downloads from streaming services and purchased digital movies are typically tied to your account and cannot be legally shared with others.
5. What if my airline offers free in-flight entertainment?
Even if your airline offers free entertainment, it’s always a good idea to have your own downloaded content as a backup. Airline entertainment systems can be unreliable or offer a limited selection.
6. Is it safe to use public Wi-Fi to download movies before a flight?
Using public Wi-Fi for downloading can be risky due to security concerns. It’s recommended to use a secure, private Wi-Fi network for downloading sensitive data. Consider using a VPN for added security.
7. Can I download movies directly onto a USB drive for playback on an in-flight entertainment system?
This depends on the airline and the entertainment system. Many in-flight systems only support specific file formats and might not allow playback from external drives. Check with your airline beforehand.
8. What’s the best way to manage a large library of downloaded movies?
Consider using a dedicated media management software like Plex or Kodi. These applications allow you to organize your movies, add metadata, and stream them to various devices.
9. What are the best video settings to use when converting movies for offline viewing?
For optimal balance between quality and file size, consider using a resolution of 720p or 1080p, a bitrate of around 2000-4000 kbps, and the H.264 or H.265 codec.
10. Will downloading movies drain my device’s battery faster?
Yes. Playing downloaded movies, especially in high definition, will consume battery power. Optimize your device by lowering screen brightness, turning off unnecessary features, and bringing a portable power bank.
11. Can I download movies from YouTube for offline viewing?
While YouTube Premium allows for offline downloads within the YouTube app, downloading videos from YouTube using third-party software without permission from the copyright holder is generally a violation of YouTube’s terms of service and may infringe copyright laws.
12. What’s the best way to ensure my downloaded movies play smoothly without buffering on the plane?
Buffering shouldn’t be an issue with downloaded content since it’s stored locally on your device. However, ensure you have enough storage space and processing power to play the files. Close other running applications and restart your device if necessary.
By following these steps and keeping these FAQs in mind, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable in-flight entertainment experience. Happy travels!