IPTV Setup How to Setup IPTV on iPhone & iPad: Step-by-Step Guide (2026)

Learn how to easily setup M3U playlists and Xtream Codes on your iPhone or iPad. Follow our beginner-friendly guide to start streaming live TV in minutes.

How to Setup IPTV on iPhone & iPad

Getting started with IPTV on iOS is easier than ever in 2026. Whether you have an M3U playlist URL or Xtream Codes login details, this guide will walk you through setting up your favorite player app (we recommend Stream Master) to watch live TV, movies, and series on your iPhone or iPad.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, make sure you have:

  1. An IPTV Subscription: Usually provided as an M3U link or Username/Password/URL (Xtream Codes).
  2. An Internet Connection: Stable Wi-Fi or 5G is recommended for buffer-free streaming.
  3. An IPTV Player App: Download Stream Master from the App Store.

Xtream Codes is the most user-friendly method. It uses a simple login format instead of a long, complicated URL.

  1. Open Stream Master on your iPhone.
  2. Select Add Playlist or tap the + icon.
  3. Choose Xtream Codes API.
  4. Enter the details provided by your IPTV service:
    • Name: Give your playlist a name (e.g., “My TV”).
    • Username: Your username.
    • Password: Your password.
    • URL: The server URL (e.g., http://server.com:8080).
  5. Tap Add User or Login.
  6. Wait for the channels, movies, and series to download.
  7. Start watching!

Method 2: Setting up with M3U Playlist URL

If your provider only gives you a long web link (M3U URL), follow these steps:

  1. Copy the M3U URL from your email or message.
  2. Open Stream Master.
  3. Select Add Playlist or tap +.
  4. Choose M3U URL.
  5. Name: Enter a name (e.g., “Sports PL”).
  6. URL: Paste the long URL you copied.
    • Tip: Make sure there are no spaces at the beginning or end.
  7. Tap Add Playlist.
  8. The app will process the list and categorize channels automatically.

Method 3: Uploading a Local M3U File

Sometimes you might have a .m3u file saved on your phone.

  1. Save the .m3u file to your Files app on iPhone.
  2. Open Stream Master.
  3. Tap Add Playlist > Select File.
  4. Browse and select the .m3u file.
  5. The playlist is imported instantly.

Troubleshooting Common Setup Issues

”Invalid URL” or “Login Failed”

  • Check Typos: Ensure http:// or https:// is correct. Often users type https when it should be http.
  • Hidden Spaces: Copy-pasting can sometimes add invisible spaces. Delete the last character and re-type it.
  • VPN: Some ISPs block IPTV. Try enabling or disabling your VPN.

Channels Not Loading

  • Refresh Playlist: Pull down on the playlist screen to force a refresh.
  • Check Subscription: Ensure your subscription hasn’t expired.

EPG (Guide) Missing

  • Xtream Codes: Usually auto-populates EPG.
  • M3U: You may need to add a separate EPG URL if your provider requires it. Stream Master handles this in the playlist settings.

Conclusion

Setting up IPTV on your iPhone is a straightforward process once you know the steps. Using Xtream Codes is generally faster and offers a better EPG experience. With an app like Stream Master, you get advanced features like favorites managing, AirPlay, and background playback right out of the box.

Now that you’re set up, enjoy your streaming!