What works on tvOS
Apple's App Store carries several players that accept an M3U link or an Xtream Codes login. They are generally polished and well suited to the Siri Remote, though the selection is narrower than on Android TV and the best-known Android players — TiviMate in particular — have no tvOS version.
Message us with the model of Apple TV you own before you buy anything from the App Store, and we will tell you which current player we know works cleanly with our details.
Installing and adding your subscription
- Open the App Store on your Apple TV.
- Search for a player that supports M3U or Xtream Codes, and install it.
- Open it and choose to add a playlist or user.
- Enter the details we sent you. On tvOS you can use the iPhone keyboard prompt instead of the remote, which makes a long server URL far quicker.
- Let the channel list and guide load fully before browsing.
How Apple TV compares
Honest summary: Apple TV hardware is excellent and playback is smooth, the remote-plus-iPhone-keyboard combination is the nicest way to enter details on any platform, and app quality is high. Against that, you have fewer players to choose from, you cannot sideload an alternative if you dislike them, and some players charge a one-off App Store price.
If you already own an Apple TV it is a very good IPTV device. If you are buying hardware specifically for IPTV, an Android TV box or a Firestick gives you more choice for less money.
Frequently asked questions
Does IPTV work on Apple TV?
Yes. Apple TV can run IPTV through players available in the tvOS App Store that accept an M3U link or Xtream Codes login. Installation is straightforward because everything comes from the official store.
Can I use TiviMate on Apple TV?
No. TiviMate is an Android TV application and there is no tvOS version. On Apple TV you use one of the players available in the App Store instead.
Can I sideload an IPTV app on Apple TV?
No. tvOS does not allow sideloading, so every app must come from the App Store. This is why the choice of player is smaller on Apple TV than on Android TV or Firestick.