How to install MP3 playback in Ubuntu

Note
Theoretically, Ubuntu should install the MP3 codecs for you automatically, but it can't hurt to have extra repositories enabled before you start this tutorial.

This procedure will install only MP3 playback for you. If you're pretty sure you want other proprietary codecs installed, then you should install the ubuntu-restricted-extras package (which includes Flash, Microsoft fonts, and Java, among other things), as per these instructions.

Installation Procedure
First, find or download an MP3 file.


Then the easiest way to install MP3 playback in Ubuntu is to just try to play an MP3 file. So just double-click the file.


Once you do that, Totem will try to play the MP3 file and then realize you do not have the necessary codecs to play MP3 files. It'll ask if you want to search for the appropriate codec. Click Search to continue.


Click Install, then Confirm.


Wait for the codecs to install. Then click OK


Now your MP3 should start playing in Totem.

If you have suggestions or corrections for these tutorials, please post in this Ubuntu Forums thread or leave a comment on my blog.