Windows Phone progress update published on VLC Kickstarter project

The VLC team has updated its Kickstarter project page with an announcement on how progress is currently being made for both Windows 8 Windows Phone 8. While the roadmap is currently focused on Windows 8 and RT, the Windows Phone version is found to be much more feasible than previously thought.

We previously covered the project when it was started as an upcoming Windows app, but the team is now focused on Microsoft's mobile platform as well, which will please consumers who are looking to invest in new hardware by supporting partners. The team also notes that Windows Phone is less restrictive than it desktop brethren and thus some existing code will be included and run as is.

"We've been in touch with Microsoft representatives, who are thrilled about our endeavor and ready to collaborate with us. They are looking into ways of supporting us directly through non-financial matters, notably hardware, technical and design help. This is great news."

As well as the above, the VLC team has been in touch with several designers and chip venders about the project, which is surely gathering traction with the interest from both Microsoft and consumers - the Kickstarter project has accumulated over $20,000 thus far. It's proving to be a challenge to have the app ready for it to be successfully published in the Windows and Windows Phone stores that Microsoft actively polices (to a degree).

It's reported that a significant number of backers have asked about legal implications of the potential publication of VLC on the Windows Store, but these have been responded with confirmation that the store terms and conditions appear to be compatible with GNU GPL. Also, when published the team hopes to be able to distribute codecs through the store.

Be sure to keep an eye out for future updates on the Kickstarter project page, where the team plans to publish imagery of current UI mockups, as well as video demonstrating ideas for Windows Phone. Exciting times ahead, folks.

Source: Kickstarter; thanks, Evgeny, for the tip!