Why an HTPC rather than standalone?
An HTPC is the most complete IPTV solution you can get (although Boxee does come close).
What hardware should I be looking at?
Whilst you could build a full spec HTPC with Blu-Ray and DVB tuner, you've probably more options than you think. To name just a few:
By sticking with Windows and OS X, you'll have none of the worry over whether your chosen IPTV provider has an app for that platform - they can all be watched via your browser.
Linux users should note that they will have to use WINE to watch subscrition based providers who still use Silverlight, and have yet to make the move to HTML5.
What services can I get?
*subscription required
What is geolocking?
See: Geolocking (aka geoblocking) FAQ
An HTPC is the most complete IPTV solution you can get (although Boxee does come close).
What hardware should I be looking at?
Whilst you could build a full spec HTPC with Blu-Ray and DVB tuner, you've probably more options than you think. To name just a few:
- an old laptop/macbook.
- nettop or Mac mini.
- an old desktop rig (including ex-corporate options on ebay).
- NVIDIA Shield.
By sticking with Windows and OS X, you'll have none of the worry over whether your chosen IPTV provider has an app for that platform - they can all be watched via your browser.
Linux users should note that they will have to use WINE to watch subscrition based providers who still use Silverlight, and have yet to make the move to HTML5.
What services can I get?
UK specific
Now TV*, Sky Go*, BBC iPlayer, ITV Player, 4OD, Demand 5.
International options
Netflix*, YouTube, Crackle.
US/North America specific
Hulu, HBO Go*, plus full episodes on the websites of Fox, ABC etc.
All of the above use geolocking to some extent.Now TV*, Sky Go*, BBC iPlayer, ITV Player, 4OD, Demand 5.
International options
Netflix*, YouTube, Crackle.
US/North America specific
Hulu, HBO Go*, plus full episodes on the websites of Fox, ABC etc.
*subscription required
What is geolocking?
See: Geolocking (aka geoblocking) FAQ
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