Tuner vs. iPlayTV: IPTV on Apple TV compared
According to the App Store, iPlayTV is an Apple TV app ($5.99 one-time in the US) with multiple playlists, Xtream Codes with catch-up, EPG and frame-rate matching; its interface is in English. Tuner also runs on iPhone, iPad and Mac, is available in many languages, syncs via iCloud and adds recordings, Multiview and Sport mode.
| Feature | Tuner | iPlayTV |
|---|---|---|
| Apple TV | yes | yes |
| iPhone and iPad | yes | no |
| Mac | yes | no |
| M3U/M3U8 and Xtream Codes | yes | yes |
| Programme guide (EPG), custom XMLTV URL | yes | yes |
| Catch-up / “From the start” | yes | yes |
| Multiview | up to 9 channels | not mentioned |
| Recordings | yes | not mentioned |
| iCloud sync, resume | yes | not mentioned |
| Sport mode | yes | not mentioned |
| Detects off-air and frozen channels | yes | not mentioned |
| Localised interface | yes | English only |
| Price | free · Plus from €4.99/month or €99.99 once | $5.99 one-time |
As of: November 8, 2026. iPlayTV details as stated in its App Store listing (US store). Source: App Store: iPlayTV – IPTV/M3U Player (Andre Silva), Version 3.4.8 vom 24.09.2025
Strengths at a glance
Tuner
- Also on iPhone, iPad and Mac
- Interface in many languages
- Recordings, Multiview, Sport mode
- Free to use
iPlayTV
- On Apple TV since 2016
- Frame-rate matching and OpenSubtitles listed
- One-time price
Why Tuner
Native on every Apple device
One SwiftUI app for iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and Mac – with Picture in Picture, AirPlay, widgets and focus navigation on Apple TV.
Stream Shield and Best source
A buffer with automatic reconnect absorbs short drop-outs. With Tuner Plus, duplicate channels (FHD, 4K, backup) become one row and Tuner recommends the most reliable one.
Sport mode
Matches recognised in your guide and bundled, with countdown and estimated match minute – for football, NBA, NFL, NHL, MLB, Formula 1, tennis and golf.
Live stills and From the start
Current pictures from the live programme if you want them; restart running shows when your provider offers catch-up.
No account, no tracking
No Tuner account, no analytics, no ads. Credentials stay in the Keychain, sync runs through your iCloud.
Pay once if you like
Tuner is free; Tuner Plus comes monthly, yearly or as a lifetime purchase – with Family Sharing.
FAQ
Does iPlayTV run on iPhone?
According to its App Store listing, iPlayTV is for Apple TV. Tuner runs on iPhone, iPad, Apple TV and Mac.
Can I use my iPlayTV playlist in Tuner?
Yes, M3U links and Xtream logins work in Tuner the same way.