What you need
- An Apple TV 4K (any generation) or Apple TV HD with a recent tvOS version
- An IPTV player app from the App Store
- Your login details: an Xtream Codes server, username and password, or an M3U link
Apple TV does not allow apps from outside the App Store, so you choose from the players Apple has approved. That limits choice compared with Android, but the apps that are available tend to be polished.
IPTV apps to consider on Apple TV
| App | Login types | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| IPTVX | Xtream Codes, M3U | Modern interface. Also runs on iPhone, iPad and Mac |
| iPlayTV | Xtream Codes, M3U | Clean TV-guide view |
| GSE Smart IPTV | Xtream Codes, M3U | Long-standing, with many settings |
App names, prices and features change, so check the App Store listing before you buy. The app we have tested: app the business has verified on Apple TV.
Setting up IPTV on Apple TV
- Open the App Store on your Apple TV and search for your chosen player.
- Install it and open it.
- Add a new playlist or source and choose Xtream Codes if offered. It loads channels, films and the TV guide in one go.
- Enter your server URL, username and password exactly as shown in your welcome message.
- If the guide does not appear, add the EPG link from your email. See EPG setup.
Prefer M3U? See adding an M3U playlist.
Getting the best picture
- Use Ethernet. Apple TV 4K (Wi-Fi + Ethernet model) has a network port, which is the most reliable connection for live sport.
- Set “Match Content” (Settings > Video and Audio > Match Content) so the Apple TV switches frame rate to suit each channel. It makes motion look smoother.
- Check 4K requirements in our 4K and HD guide.
Watching on an iPhone or iPad too? Many of these apps sync across Apple devices. See IPTV on iPhone and iPad.
