Android TV and Google TV: set up TiviMate
For a TV player, check the developer’s feature list and supported devices before paying. The example below uses TiviMate; labels can change between versions.
- Open Google Play on the TV and search for TiviMate. Select Install.
- Open TiviMate and select Add playlist.
- Choose Xtream Codes, then enter the server address, username and password from your welcome email. (Choose M3U playlist if that is what you received.)
- Select Next. TiviMate loads channels, and usually finds the guide automatically. If not, add the EPG URL under Settings > EPG.
- Select Done, then press OK on any channel to start watching.
Tip: long-press a channel to add it to Favorites, then set Favorites as the default group. The guide then opens on the channels you actually watch.
Android phones and tablets: add your account
- Use the official store listing linked by your player’s developer. Confirm that the app supports your Android phone or tablet.
- Open the app, accept the terms and choose Login with Xtream Codes API.
- Enter any name, then the username, password and URL from your email.
- Tap Add user. Live TV, Movies, Series and Catch-up appear on the dashboard.
To watch on the TV from your phone, tap the Cast icon if the app supports Chromecast, or use screen mirroring. On Roku, see our Roku guide.
Recommended settings
- Player: in TiviMate, Settings > Playback; try the default player first, then switch if you see stutters.
- Buffer: set to Medium or Large.
- Decoder: hardware decoding is usually smoother on TV boxes.
- AFR (auto frame rate): turn on if your device supports it for smoother sports.
- Network: Ethernet beats Wi-Fi; if you must use Wi-Fi, use the 5 GHz band.
Troubleshooting on Android
| Problem | Fix |
|---|---|
| App not in Google Play | Check the spelling; some apps are TV-only or phone-only versions |
| Guide is blank | Add the EPG URL and refresh: Settings > EPG > Update |
| Buffering | Clear cache in Android Settings > Apps > the player > Storage, then see fix IPTV buffering |
| Phone gets hot | Lower the stream quality to HD; close other apps |
Sources and device documentation
Test with the remote you use every day
A phone app can be awkward to navigate on a television. During the free trial, check that the remote reaches the guide, search and favourites without a touchscreen. Compare device allowances if the household watches in several rooms.
When asking support for help, include the Android version and whether this is a phone, tablet or TV. The same app name can have different interfaces on each.
Frequently asked questions
How should I choose an Android TV player?
Check TV support, login formats, remote navigation and any separate app charge. Test those features on your device before paying.
Is TiviMate free?
The basic app is free. Premium features such as multiple playlists and recording require a small subscription paid to the app developer.
Can I use IPTV on my Android phone over mobile data?
Check your data allowance and measure usage in Android settings. Bitrate and viewing hours determine the total; the cost guide includes an example calculation.