Start Local Video Files at a Specific Timestamp

Feature requests
1

Dear Obsidian Developers and Community,

I am writing to propose a feature that would significantly enhance the utility of local video embedding within Obsidian notes. Currently, when a local video file is embedded using the ![[video.mp4]] syntax, it always starts playing from the very beginning (0:00) when clicked or opened.

My request is for the ability to specify a starting timestamp (in seconds) for locally embedded video files, similar to how this functionality works for YouTube embeds using the ?start=XX parameter.

The Problem:

In my workflow, I often embed lecture recordings, meeting videos, or long-form educational content directly into my Obsidian notes. During review or when referencing a specific point, I frequently need to jump to a particular moment within the video. Having the video always start from the beginning requires manual scrubbing to the desired timestamp, which can be time-consuming and disruptive to the note-taking and review process.

Proposed Solution:

I envision a syntax that allows users to define a starting point. Here are a few potential syntax ideas (open to developer recommendations):

  1. URL Fragment-like Syntax (Similar to Web Standards):
    ![[video.mp4#t=97]]
    (Where #t=97 indicates starting at 97 seconds.)

  2. Query Parameter-like Syntax (Similar to YouTube):
    ![[video.mp4?start=97]]
    (Where ?start=97 indicates starting at 97 seconds.)

  3. Dedicated Obsidian-Specific Syntax:
    ![[video.mp4|start=97]]
    (Using a pipe | for parameters, similar to image resizing |widthxheight.)

Benefits of this Feature:

  • Enhanced Productivity: Users can quickly jump to relevant sections of videos without manual seeking, saving time and improving focus during review.
  • Improved Referencing: Notes can link directly to the most critical parts of a video, making them more precise and valuable.
  • Better Learning/Review Experience: Especially useful for students, researchers, or professionals who need to frequently revisit specific moments in long video recordings.
  • Consistency with External Embeds: Bringing local video functionality closer to the capabilities of external video platforms like YouTube.

I understand that implementing this feature for local files might involve deeper integration with Obsidian’s internal media player or potentially leveraging a more robust player library. However, I believe the significant workflow improvements it would offer make it a valuable addition.

Thank you for considering this feature request. I am happy to provide further context or examples if needed.

Sincerely,

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