How to add an M3U or M3U8 IPTV playlist

Option 1: Add an M3U playlist URL

1. Get a direct playlist URL from a broadcaster or provider you are authorized to use. Keep any private URL or token out of public forums.
2. Open the browser playlist explorer. Paste the URL in the input marked with a playlist example.
3. Select Load. After processing, choose a channel group or use the search field to find a stream.
4. Select Preview on a channel. Some formats, browser policies and providers prevent direct playback; a successful import does not guarantee every stream will play.

Option 2: Import a local .m3u or .m3u8 file

1. Save the playlist from a legitimate source on your device. Check that the file contains the expected entries.
2. In the web explorer, choose Upload .m3u and select the file. The picker accepts M3U and M3U8 text playlists.
3. Choose a folder to narrow the results; select a channel to preview it. Your browser can cache imported channel lists locally so you can revisit them later.

Using IPTV Live on Android

In the Android app, open the playlists area and choose to add your own playlist. The app supports playlist sources provided by the user and may offer guide, favorites and casting features depending on the source, device and available data. IPTV Live is published by PRCode under the package com.prcodeapps.iptvlive.

For a walkthrough of the format, read how to create an M3U playlist and how M3U playlists work.

When a playlist imports but video does not play

Check source access first

Test whether your provider still offers the stream in its supported app. An expired account, removed channel, restricted country or private access token cannot be fixed by changing the player's appearance.

Browser compatibility and CORS

Some stream formats need a browser-specific player. Our M3U8/HLS guide explains the difference between a channel list and a video manifest. Other URLs deny cross-origin browser requests (CORS), even when they work in a native app. Only the source operator can authorize cross-origin access; do not upload private playlists to random proxy sites.

Black screen or repeated buffering

If the channel loads but displays a blank picture, check the stream format and test a different authorized source before changing player settings. Follow the IPTV black-screen checklist for source, codec and device checks. If playback starts but repeatedly pauses, compare the connection and provider load using the IPTV buffering and network guide. Neither symptom is proof that a playlist URL itself is invalid.

Programme guides and casting

EPG schedules depend on the data a provider includes or makes available. Casting from the Android app depends on compatible devices and streams. A playlist import by itself does not ensure either feature.

See our XMLTV and missing-EPG checklist, EPG explanation or general troubleshooting checklist for more detail.