• Written by James
• October 30, 2025
• 5 minutes

The Google/Android TVs like the popular devices made by Nvidia Shield, Sony Bravia, TCL, and Chromecast with Google TV have an easy and robust cabling platform to stream. They have an open Android platform and this makes them best suited to install an enormous number of IPTV applications.

Following this step-by-step tutorial on how to turn your Android TV into a potent IPTV hub in 2025 will guide you on the process of doing it, regardless of whether you are employing a dedicated device or a smart TV

Notable Disclaimer: The legality of IPTV services is pegged on the content that they contain and its legitimacy in terms of licensing. It is a tutorial on the installation of media player applications. It is upon you to ensure that the IPTV service you patronize is authentic and that you have the legal right to stream the contents in your location. Always make use of a personal net (VPN) to keep things secret.

What You’ll Need Before You Start

1. A Google/Android TV Device (e.g., Nvidia Shield, Chromecast with Google TV, Sony TV, TCL TV, etc.).
2. A Stable Internet Connection (Wired or Wi-Fi).
3. An IPTV Subscription from a provider. They will give you an M3U playlist link or Xtream Codes login details (username, password, server URL).
4. A VPN (Highly Recommended): Services like NordVPN, ExpressVPN, or Surfshark are available on the Google Play Store and are essential for privacy.

Method 1: The Easy Way – Install a Player from the Google Play Store

The simplest method is to use a player available directly on the official Play Store. This requires no special permissions and is the most secure approach.

Step 1: Install a VPN from the Play Store

Before anything else, protect your connection.

1. From the home screen, go to the Google Play Store.
2. Search for your VPN (e.g., NordVPN).
3. Install it, log in, and connect to a recommended server.

Step 2: Install an IPTV Player from the Play Store

Several excellent players are available right on the store. OTT Navigator is a top-tier, highly customizable choice, while IPTV Smarters Pro is very user-friendly.

To Install OTT Navigator:

1. Open the Google Play Store on your device.
2. Use the search function and type “OTT Navigator” OR “IPTV Smarter PRO”.
3. Select the app by Олег Шибаев (the official developer) and click Install.
4. Once installed, open it. You are now ready to configure your playlist.

Method 2: The Power User Way – Sideloading an App (e.g., Tivimate)

Some of the best IPTV players, like the renowned Tivimate, are not on the official Play Store due to policy reasons. To install them, you need to “sideload” the app using a file manager.

Step 1: Enable Unknown Sources

You need to grant permission to install apps from outside the Play Store.

1. Go to Settings > Device Preferences (or System).
2. Select Security & Restrictions.
3. Find the option called Unknown Sources.
4. You will see a list of apps. Find and enable this permission for Downloader or your chosen file manager (like “X-Plore”). This tells the system to allow that specific app to install other applications.

Step 2: Install “Downloader” and Get the IPTV Smarter PRO App

“Downloader” is a simple tool that lets you download files directly to your device.

1. Open the Google Play Store and search for “Downloader” (by AFTVnews). Install it.
2. Open the Downloader app. It will ask for permission to access files. Click Allow.
3. In the URL field, enter the following Code 224877 to get the latest version of IPTV Smarter PRO:
4. Click Go. The app will download the APK file.
5. Once downloaded, a prompt will appear. Click Install.
6. After installation, click Done. You can now find Tivimate in your app drawer.

Step 3: (CRITICAL) Install and Connect a VPN

If you haven’t already, now is the time to install and connect your VPN. Follow the same steps as in Method 1, Step 1.

Step 4: Configure Your IPTV Player with Your Subscription

This final step is the same regardless of which player or method you used. We’ll use Tivimate and OTT Navigator as examples.

Configuring IPTV Smarter Pro

1. Open IPTV Smarter Pro.
2. Go to the Settings tab (the gear icon).
3. Select Playlists > Add Playlist.
4. You have two options:
   • For M3U URL: Select “Enter URL,” paste your M3U link, and click Next.
   • For Xtream Codes: Select “Xtream Codes API,” and enter your username, password, and server URL.
5. Click Xtream Codes and Write Username , Password and Server Url in Fields That we provided in emails

Configuring OTT Navigator

1. Open OTT Navigator. It will start with a setup wizard.
2. Select Add playlist.
3. Choose the source. “XC Portal / MAC” is for Xtream Codes, and “URL / File” is for an M3U link.
4. For Xtream Codes:
   • Enter a Profile Name (e.g., “My IPTV”).
   • Fill in the Host, Username, and Password from your provider.
   • Click OK.
5. For M3U URL:
   • Select “URL,” paste your full M3U link, and click OK.
6. The app will fetch your playlist and EPG. You’re all set!

Troubleshooting Common Issues in 2025

• “App not installed” error when sideloading: This usually means the APK file is corrupted or incompatible. Try downloading it again or look for a more recent version.
• Channels are Buffering:
  • Check Your Internet: Run a speed test on your device.
  • Restart Everything: Restart your Android TV device and router.
  • VPN Server: Try connecting to a different VPN server closer to your location.
  • Provider Issue: Contact your IPTV provider; the issue may be on their end.
• “Playlist Failed to Load” or “Login Failed”:
  • Double-check your username, password, and URL for typos. They are case-sensitive.
  • Your subscription may have expired, or the service might be temporarily down.

Final Thoughts

Setting up IPTV on a Google/Android TV Device is an easy process that will open up a world of live television. Whether you opt for the easy-to-use simplicity of an app from the Play Store such as OTT Navigator, or a premium experience of a sideloaded app such as Tivimate, you are a few steps from a powerful entertainment system.

Remember to always use a reputable VPN and a reliable IPTV service. Enjoy your streaming!