M3U vs Xtream Codes: which playlist format should you use?
Both work in OTOO. Here is what each one is, what you get with EPG and catch-up, and which to pick if your provider offers both.
Providers usually give you one of two things: an M3U link or an Xtream Codes login. OTOO plays both, but they are not equal.
M3U
An M3U is a plain text playlist: one line per channel with its name, group and stream URL. Optionally an EPG URL (XMLTV) delivers the programme guide.
- ✅ Universal — every player accepts it.
- ✅ Works with your own custom playlists.
- ❌ EPG must be linked separately and matched by channel id.
- ❌ No catch-up (replay of past programmes) unless the provider encodes it in the playlist.
- ❌ One big download; huge playlists load slowly.
Xtream Codes (API)
Xtream is a login — server URL, username, password — against a provider's API. The player asks for exactly what it needs: live categories, VOD, series, EPG, catch-up.
- ✅ EPG comes built in and matches automatically.
- ✅ Catch-up and series with episodes work out of the box.
- ✅ Fast: lists load per category.
- ❌ Only works with providers running an Xtream-compatible panel (most do).
Which should you pick?
If your provider offers both: Xtream. You get EPG, catch-up and VOD without any extra setup. Use M3U when that is all you have, or for a playlist you built yourself.
Adding either to OTOO
Open otoo.app/mylist, type the MAC shown in the app, and either paste the M3U link (plus the EPG link, if you have one) or fill in the Xtream server, username and password. Credentials are encrypted at rest and never shown again.
Many providers hand out a "get.php" M3U link like http://host:8080/get.php?username=user&password=placeholder&type=m3u_plus. That is an Xtream account in disguise — OTOO's Convert button on My Playlist turns it into a proper Xtream login so you get EPG and catch-up.
OTOO does not provide playlists or content. Use the details from your own provider.