M3U or Xtream Codes: what is the difference in TIVERA?
Updated October 27, 2026
An M3U link is an address that leads to a playlist: TIVERA reads it and lists the channels under Live. An Xtream Codes account is a login (server address, username, password): TIVERA queries the server and loads Live, movies and series, with the programme guide. Both come from the same subscription; if yours offers both, Xtream Codes shows more.
What changes in TIVERA
| M3U link | Xtream Codes | |
|---|---|---|
| What you enter | An http:// or https:// address | Server address, username, password |
| Checked when you add it | Only the shape of the address | The account itself (login and status) |
| Live | Yes | Yes |
| Movies and series | No: everything is listed under Live | Yes, Movies and Series tabs are filled |
| Programme guide | Only if the playlist declares one in its header | Automatic, from the account's server |
| Catch-up (Premium) | No | Yes, if the account offers the archive |
| Account details | None | Expiry and connections can appear on the source's card |
| Source already added | Same address | Same server |
How to tell which one you have
- If your provider gave you an address starting with
http://orhttps://: it is an M3U link. Follow play an M3U on Android TV. - If it gave you a server address, a username and a password: it is an Xtream Codes account. Follow add an Xtream Codes account.
- If it only gave you a
.m3ufile: TIVERA does not read local files, so it also needs the link or the Xtream details of the same subscription.
Free and Premium
The free version accepts a single source, M3U and Xtream together. Adding a second source opens the Premium screen instead of saving the source. Catch-up is also a Premium feature. On Android TV, the free version is a 7-day trial per TV, then watching requires Premium: see the Terms.
Frequently asked questions
Which one should I pick if my subscription offers both?
Pick Xtream Codes if you want movies, series, the automatic guide and catch-up. An M3U link is enough if you only watch live TV. The content is still your subscription's: TIVERA provides none.
Does an M3U link also give me movies and series?
No. TIVERA lists every entry of an M3U link under Live, even if the playlist contains movies. The Movies and Series tabs only fill up with an Xtream Codes account.
Can I add both for the same subscription?
Yes, but that makes two sources, so Premium. In the free version you have to pick one.
Why is my guide empty with an M3U link?
An M3U link only has a guide if the playlist declares one in its header. Otherwise, see empty TV guide.