IPTV on Android
IPTV on Android phones, tablets and TV boxes
Android gives you the widest choice of player apps, straight from Google Play, on everything from a phone to a 4K box under the TV. Here's how to install safely and stop playback cutting out.
Which Android?
Three kinds of Android device
Android TV & Google TV
Built into many Sony, TCL and Hisense TVs, and into streaming devices such as the Google TV Streamer. Remote-friendly apps with a full channel guide.
Android TV boxes
A box under the TV, often with a network port and plenty of storage. Choose a reputable brand that still receives software updates.
Phones & tablets
The same library in your hand for the kitchen, backyard or bedroom. Many apps can also cast to a TV.
Install safely
- Use Google Play wherever possible. Apps there are checked and updated automatically.
- Keep Google Play Protect switched on.
- Only install apps from sources we name. Never install files from random websites or video comments.
- Avoid boxes sold "fully loaded" with unknown apps. They often run outdated, unsafe software.
Stop playback cutting out
Battery: Unrestricted
Settings › Apps › [the app] › Battery › Unrestricted, so Android doesn't pause it.
Data saver: off for the app
Let the app use background data, or it may drop the stream.
Keep it updated
Turn on auto-update in Google Play for the player app.
Buying a box?
What to look for in an Android TV box
| Feature | Minimum | Better |
|---|---|---|
| Software | A supported, recent Android TV version | Google TV with regular updates |
| Memory (RAM) | 2 GB | 4 GB or more |
| Storage | 8 GB | 16 GB or more |
| Connection | 5 GHz Wi-Fi | Ethernet port |
| Video | Full HD | 4K with HDR for a 4K TV |
Questions
Android questions
Which Android app should I use?
There are several good player apps on Google Play. We recommend one based on whether you're using a TV, a box or a phone, and keep that advice up to date as apps change.
Can I cast from my phone to the TV?
Many apps support casting to Chromecast or Google TV devices. For long viewing, a native app on the TV is steadier and frees up your phone.
My box is a few years old. Will it work?
If it still gets updates and runs a recent Android TV version, usually yes. Send us the model and Android version to check.
Does it work on Android tablets?
Yes. Tablets make a great second screen. Use Wi-Fi rather than cellular data for longer viewing.