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How to set up an IPTV M3U playlist: complete guide

What an M3U link is, how it differs from Xtream Codes, and how to add it on smart TV, Android, iPhone or VLC.

What is an M3U playlist?

An M3U (or M3U8) playlist is a simple text file listing the channels and the address of each video stream. Your IPTV player app reads the file and shows the channels by category. With IPTV Suisse Abo you get a personal M3U link: just paste it into the app.

M3U or Xtream Codes: which to use?

M3U linkXtream Codes
FormatA single URLURL + username + password
TV guide (EPG)Add an EPG URLAutomatic
VOD / seriesDepends on the appAutomatic
CompatibilityAlmost every app, VLCSmarters, TiviMate, GSE…

In short: use Xtream Codes when the app supports it, and the M3U link for VLC, some smart TVs and simpler players.

Set up an M3U playlist, device by device

Smart TV (Smart IPTV, SS IPTV…)

These apps display the TV's MAC address. On the app's website, enter that MAC address and your M3U link, then restart the app on the TV.

Android TV, Fire TV (TiviMate, IPTV Smarters)

Add a playlist, choose M3U playlist, paste the URL and add the EPG URL in the same step.

iPhone, iPad and Apple TV

In GSE Smart IPTV or iPlayTV, add a Remote playlist and paste the M3U URL.

PC and Mac with VLC

Media › Open Network Stream (Windows) or File › Open Network (Mac), paste the M3U link and click Play. Show the channel list with Ctrl+L.

Common M3U playlist issues

  • Playlist won't load: check the link was copied in full, with no spaces at the start or end.
  • No TV guide: add the EPG URL (XMLTV format) from our support.
  • Missing logos: reload the playlist. Some apps only show them after an update.
Never share your M3U link: it contains your personal login. Sharing it can get your subscription suspended.
Where do I find my M3U link?

We send it by email or WhatsApp after your order, together with your Xtream Codes login.

What's the difference between M3U and M3U8?

M3U8 is simply an M3U playlist encoded in UTF-8. Both work the same way in IPTV apps.

Can I use a free M3U playlist from the internet?

Those lists usually stream channels without permission, are unstable and can carry security risks. We advise against them.

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