Catch-up TV lets you watch programmes that already aired — usually from the last 1 to 7 days — straight from the TV guide, while time-shift lets you pause, rewind and restart a show that is live right now. On IPTV, both work through the provider’s server, so you do not need a recorder or any storage at home.
Catch-up vs time-shift vs recording #
| Feature | What it does | How far back | Needs storage? |
|---|---|---|---|
| Catch-up | Replay past programmes from the guide | Usually 1–7 days | No |
| Time-shift | Pause or rewind the live channel | Since the show started | No |
| Recording (PVR) | Save a show to keep | As long as you keep the file | Yes |
How do I use catch-up on IPTV? #
- Use an app that supports catch-up, such as TiviMate, IPTV Smarters Pro or a MAG box portal.
- Open the TV guide (EPG) and scroll back to an earlier time.
- Channels with catch-up show a small rewind or clock icon. Select a past programme.
- Press play — it streams from the provider’s archive like on-demand video.
Why do only some channels have catch-up? #
Archiving every channel takes a lot of server storage, so providers usually keep catch-up on the most-watched channels: main entertainment, news and sports. 24/7 movie channels and pay-per-view event channels rarely have it.
Frequently asked questions #
How many days of catch-up does IPTV have?
It depends on the provider and channel. Most offer between 1 and 7 days on supported channels.
Does catch-up work with an M3U link?
Sometimes. Catch-up works most reliably with an Xtream Codes login or a MAG portal, because the app can request the archive directly.
Is catch-up the same as recording?
No. Catch-up streams from the provider’s archive and disappears after a few days; a recording is a file you keep on your own device.
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