FLAC 1.5 Gets a Speed Boost

The latest update to the FLAC (Free Lossless Audio Codec), version 1.5.0, brings several improvements, including faster file compression and better support for certain file types.
 

Faster Encoding

FLAC can now use multiple processor cores when compressing audio files, making the process quicker.

Better Support for Ogg FLAC Files

The update improves how FLAC handles a specific type of file called "chained Ogg FLAC," making playback smoother.

Improved Metadata Handling

Users can now save metadata changes to a new file instead of overwriting the original.
FLAC now gives warnings about certain metadata types that may cause issues.
It also prevents accidental changes to files that are shortcuts (symbolic links).
 

Other Improvements

The help documentation is now available in HTML format for easier access.
The format used by FLAC is now officially documented in RFC 9639.
The software is now easier to build on Android and other platforms.