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Frequently Asked Questions

XiaDown is a local-first library management app with video and sniffing downloads. It is also a client for YouTube, YouTube Music, and RSS, so you can download the media you need with one click while browsing.

Files are saved in the location selected under Settings → Download → Download Directory, while task and file records appear in the Library. A managed Library import copies files to a location managed by the Library.

Downloads require yt-dlp and FFmpeg, while transcoding requires FFmpeg. Open Settings → Download to install or verify the corresponding tools. Bun helps yt-dlp parse some sites, but is not required to start every download.

When should I use a regular download or Sniffing?

Section titled “When should I use a regular download or Sniffing?”

Start with New Download when you have a direct video or media link. Use Sniffing when the web page must be opened and played before the resource becomes available, or when a regular download cannot parse it.

Does XiaDown read sign-in data from my everyday browser?

Section titled “Does XiaDown read sign-in data from my everyday browser?”

XiaDown does not read it automatically in the background. App Sessions read only the sign-in data needed by supported apps from a selected source after you explicitly choose Sync from Browser, and they do not modify the browser profile. Sniffing can connect to the current Chrome session or use a browser profile managed separately by XiaDown.

A download creates a Library task. After completion, its audio appears in the Library’s Audio category and under Local in Music.

A download action appears only when an entry provides a recognized, accessible media address. For resources on a regular web page, try a Library download or Sniffing.

The iPhone and iPad clients are still in development, and no public installation package is available. Follow information published on the official website.

Yes. Submit an issue through GitHub Issues or email [email protected]. Remove sensitive information such as accounts, links, and local paths before submitting.