When to Choose Ki-Wi Player Windows and When to Choose Ki-Wi Player Light?

Introduction

When selecting a digital signage solution, we often encounter the question of whether to use Ki-Wi Player Windows or Ki-Wi Player Light. Both applications have their advantages and are suitable for different types of projects. In this article, we'll take a closer look at the differences between these two variants and advise you on when it's appropriate to use each of them.

Generally, Ki-Wi Player Light should be the default choice unless the customer needs more advanced features that are only available with Ki-Wi Player Windows. Player Light is easy to install and manage, and is suitable for most common Digital Signage projects. It's the default choice mainly for economic reasons - cheaper hardware running on Android, no need to use an external PC or purchase a Windows license.

When to Choose Ki-Wi Player Windows

Ki-Wi Player Windows is a powerful tool that offers a wide range of advanced features. Here are some situations where it's appropriate to choose this option:

Operating System 

• Integration of PC into Active Directory domain: If you need to incorporate the device into a corporate domain for centralized management and security, Ki-Wi Player Windows is the right choice. 
• Remote device connection option VNC, AnyDesk: Ki-Wi Player Windows allows remote access to the device using standard remote desktop tools.

Playback Mode 

• Combination of content playback on multiple screens: With Ki-Wi Player Windows, you can easily control content on multiple screens simultaneously, for example on a large screen and a smaller touch panel. 
• Using one computer for multiple screens: Ki-Wi Player Windows supports controlling multiple screens from one PC, which is useful for video walls and similar installations. 
• Support for playback from network folder: Content can be easily managed and updated by multiple users thanks to support for playback from shared network folders. 
• Playback of MS PowerPoint (PPTX) files: Ki-Wi Player Windows allows direct playback of PowerPoint presentations without the need for conversion to other formats. 
• Dynamic and stack playlists: Advanced playlist creation and management options are available in Ki-Wi Player Windows.

Interactive Mode for Self-Service Terminals / Info Kiosks

• Loading web pages that are not under control: Ki-Wi Player Windows allows displaying any web pages in interactive kiosk mode. 
• Kiosk bar: Ki-Wi Player Windows offers the option to add a custom kiosk bar for application control. 
• Opening MS Office formats from the kiosk environment: Users can view and work with Microsoft Office documents in kiosk mode. 
• Using whitelist for kiosk media: Ki-Wi Player Windows allows restricting access to only allowed websites. 
• More complex integration of reader and printer: Advanced integration options for peripherals such as card readers and printers are available in Ki-Wi Player Windows.

When It's Appropriate to Use Ki-Wi Player Light

Ki-Wi Player Light is an ideal choice for simpler Digital Signage projects that don't require the advanced features of Ki-Wi Player Windows. Here are some situations where Ki-Wi Player Light is the right choice:

• Simpler projects without the need for advanced features: If your project doesn't require the advanced features described above, Ki-Wi Player Light will probably be sufficient and easier to implement. 
• Screens with built-in Android 7.0 operating system and higher (e.g., Philips Signage): For modern smart screens with Android OS, Ki-Wi Player Light is the natural choice.

Comparison table

Conclusion 

When deciding between Ki-Wi Player Windows and Ki-Wi Player Light, it is important to consider the specific requirements of your project. Ki-Wi Player Windows offers a wide range of advanced features, but for many projects, Ki-Wi Player Light will be sufficient and easier to deploy.

If you are unsure which player is best for your project, do not hesitate to contact Ki-Wi support. Our team will be happy to advise you and help you choose the best solution based on your specific needs.

Whether you choose Ki-Wi Player Windows or Ki-Wi Player Light, you can be sure that you will get a reliable and powerful solution for your Digital Signage project.