It depends on the login type
| Login type | What you get | Apps that take it |
|---|---|---|
| M3U link | One address for the whole playlist | Almost every IPTV player, plus VLC and Kodi |
| Xtream Codes | Server, username and password | Most dedicated IPTV players |
| MAC portal | A portal address, recognised by your device’s MAC address | MAG boxes, Formuler’s MyTVOnline and portal-emulating apps |
Many providers can give you more than one type, for example an Xtream Codes login and an M3U link for the same account. See Xtream Codes vs M3U and Stalker portals explained.
The exceptions
- Provider-branded apps. Some providers ship their own app that only works with their service.
- Smart TV apps with web activation. Apps such as SmartOne IPTV, Net IPTV and Set IPTV identify your TV by a MAC address or device key. You add the playlist on the developer’s website, and some charge their own fee after a trial. See SmartOne, Net IPTV and Set IPTV.
- Paid features. The player may be free while extras, such as recording or multiple playlists, need a paid upgrade. That fee goes to the app developer, not your provider.
- Device limits. Not every app is on every device. TiviMate, for example, is built for Android TV, and isn’t optimised for phones and tablets.
A quick way to choose
- Check which login types your provider gives you.
- Pick a player for your device that accepts one of them: see the best IPTV apps and the guide for your device.
- Add the login, then check the channel list and TV guide load.
If you switch apps later, your subscription comes with you: add the same login to the new app.