Players for macOS
| Player | Where to get it | macOS requirement (listing) | Logins | Guide |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| IPTVX | Mac App Store | macOS 12 | Xtream Codes, M3U | Yes |
| UHF | Mac App Store | macOS 13 | Xtream Codes, M3U | Yes |
| Smarters Player Lite | Mac App Store (WHMCS Smarters) | macOS 12.5 | Xtream Codes, M3U | Yes |
| IBO PLAYER | Mac App Store, or an Intel build from iboplayer.com | macOS 10.15 (App Store) | Via IBO Player’s website | Yes |
| VLC | videolan.org | Most macOS versions | M3U | No IPTV guide |
| IPTVnator | The developer’s GitHub releases | See releases | Xtream Codes, M3U | Yes |
| Kodi | kodi.tv | See the Kodi site | M3U with the PVR IPTV Simple Client add-on | Yes (XMLTV) |
Requirements come from the App Store listings in September 2026; check the current listing before installing.
Set up a player
- Install the player from the Mac App Store or the developer’s own website.
- Add a playlist or account, and choose Xtream Codes or M3U to match your login.
- Paste the details; on a Mac it’s easy to copy them from your provider’s email.
- Load the TV guide if it doesn’t appear automatically. See how to add an EPG.
For VLC specifically, see watch IPTV in VLC. VLC, IPTVnator and Kodi also run on Linux; see IPTV on Linux.
Tips for a better picture
- Use Ethernet or strong Wi-Fi. A MacBook far from the router buffers like any other device.
- Full screen on an external display: set the display’s refresh rate to 50 Hz in Displays settings if it offers it, for smoother UK channels.
- Keep the Mac awake: some players prevent sleep during playback; otherwise adjust Energy or Battery settings while watching.
Watching on the big screen as well? The best IPTV apps for Apple TV shares many of the same apps.