How to add an M3U playlist

An M3U playlist is a single web link that lists your channels. Almost every IPTV player accepts one. Here is how it works and how to add it to the most common apps.

Contact supportAll fixes

Last updated 4 November 2026

Abstract light streaks representing an IPTV M3U playlist stream

What is an M3U playlist?

M3U is a plain-text playlist format. For IPTV, your provider gives you an M3U link: a web address that returns a list of channels, each with a name, logo, group and stream address. Your app reads the list and turns it into a channel menu.

Your link is in your welcome message. It contains your login details, so treat it like a password. Anyone with the link can use your screens.

Abstract purple light streaks

TiviMate (Android TV, Fire TV)

  1. Choose Add playlist, then M3U playlist.
  2. Enter the link, select Next, name the playlist and finish.

IPTV Smarters Pro

  1. Choose Load your playlist or file/URL.
  2. Enter a name, select M3U URL, paste the link and select Add user.

Smart TV players (Smart IPTV, SET IPTV, Smart One)

  1. Open the app on your TV and note the MAC address shown.
  2. On the developer’s official website, enter the MAC address and your M3U link.
  3. Restart the app on the TV.

VLC, Kodi and Xbox

  • VLC: Media > Open Network Stream, then paste the link.
  • Kodi: add the link to PVR IPTV Simple Client.
  • Xbox: add it as a remote channel list in MyIPTV Player. See consoles.

Adding the TV guide

Some apps read the TV guide address from inside the playlist. Others need the EPG link adding separately. You will find it in your welcome message. See EPG setup.

Laptop showing a streaming library

If your playlist will not load

  • Paste, don’t type. Long links are easy to mistype on a TV remote. Many apps let you enter the link through a phone or website instead.
  • Check the start of the link. It should begin with http:// or https://, exactly as in your email.
  • Large playlists take time. The first load of thousands of entries can take a minute on slower devices.
  • Check your connection. Open another streaming app to confirm the internet is working.

Still stuck? See playback and login errors or contact support.

From the blog

Frequently asked questions

Should I use M3U or Xtream Codes?

If your app supports Xtream Codes, use it. It usually loads films, series and the TV guide automatically. Use M3U for apps that only accept a playlist link, such as VLC and many smart TV players.

Why does my M3U playlist not load?

The most common causes are a typing mistake in the link, a missing "http://", or the link being blocked by a slow or filtered connection. Copy and paste the link rather than typing it, and see the troubleshooting tips on this page.

Can I edit my M3U playlist?

Yes. You can hide or reorder channels in most apps, or use a playlist editor. See IPTV playlist editors explained.

Still stuck?

Send us your device, app and what you see on screen. A screenshot helps us fix it faster.

Contact supportAll troubleshooting guides