Question about transcoding and photo upload.

[NicCo 1]

Hello,
I would like to use Emby (or another media server) to organize and play my library of movies, series, and music.
To make my choice, I would like to know if transcoding can be disabled? If so, should the configuration be done on the client and server sides or only client or only server? Disabling only on the server side would be ideal.
Also, does uploading photos requires an Emby Premiere license? I read that on this forum but the post was quite old, maybe now a subscription is needed.
Thank you !

[Carlo 4561]

Hi,

Yes you can turn off transcoding to user but they will not be able to play back the media that requires it.  This option will not make it play without transcoding but just not play.

If you're referring to Camera upload from a phone/tablet, yes that is a Premiere Only feature.

Here's a nice link that covers everything the Premiere License adds to Emby Server & Clients.

https://emby.media/support/articles/Premiere-Feature-Matrix.html

Let us know if you have any additional questions,

Carlo

Edited November 6, 2025 by GrimReaper
KB article link updated

[Luke 42083]

Emby will always direct play whenever possible so there's nothing you need to do to avoid transcoding.