IPTV Basics

What is Catch Up TV? How IPTV Catch Up Works

Catch Up TV on IPTV lets you watch programmes that have already broadcast, without needing to have recorded them in advance. If you missed a programme on a supported channel, you can go back through the EPG and play it from the beginning.

How Catch Up works

When a channel supports Catch Up, the IPTV service stores recent broadcasts on its servers for a limited period. Your IPTV player accesses this stored content through the same connection as your live channels. The stored programmes appear in the EPG as past entries — you navigate backwards through the guide and select a programme to watch it from the start.

How long is content available?

The availability window varies by channel and provider, but it is typically up to 7 days. A programme broadcast last Tuesday would generally be available for catch-up replay through to approximately the following Monday. Some channels offer shorter windows (24–48 hours) depending on the content rights held by that channel.

Which channels support Catch Up?

Not all channels in an IPTV line-up offer Catch Up. Availability depends on whether the individual channel is supported by the IPTV provider's infrastructure. Major UK channels are typically well-supported. Niche international channels may have limited or no Catch Up availability.

How to access Catch Up in IPTV Smarters

  1. Select a channel from your Live TV list
  2. While the channel is playing, press the Catch Up button (a clock icon) if it appears in the player controls
  3. Alternatively, from the channel list, tap and hold a channel to see if a Catch Up option appears

How to access Catch Up in TiviMate

  1. Open the TV Guide
  2. Navigate left (backwards in time) past the current programme
  3. Past programmes will show a replay icon if Catch Up is supported
  4. Select the programme to begin playback

Catch Up vs PVR recording

Catch Up does not require you to do anything in advance — it works passively for supported channels. PVR (personal video recorder) recording in TiviMate Premium requires you to schedule the recording before the programme airs, but works for any live channel regardless of Catch Up support.

Is Catch Up included with IPTV UK Hub?

Yes. IPTV UK Hub subscriptions include Catch Up support where available for individual channels. It works automatically in compatible players — no additional setup required.


Published by IPTV UK Hub · Browse all articles