M3U8 URL links play a very important role in live and VOD streaming. Video players use the information in these text files to locate audio and video files for a stream. An essential part of HLS streaming technology, an M3U8 link makes it possible to integrate your stream with mobile apps and Smart TV apps such as Roku, Apple TV, and the like.

In this video tutorial, we’re going to show you how to generate and create an M3U8 URL for live and VOD streaming. Before we get started, it’s important to note that the M3U8 links feature is not activated by default on Dacast, so you’ll have to activate it manually.

How to Get an M3U8 Stream URL Link for Your Live and VOD Streaming

M3U8 URL links play a very important role in live and VOD streaming. Video players use the information in these text files to locate audio and video files for a stream. An essential part of HLS streaming technology, an M3U8 link makes it possible to integrate your stream with mobile apps and Smart TV apps [...]

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M3U8 URL links play a very important role in live and VOD streaming. Video players use the information in these text files to locate audio and video files for a stream. An essential part of HLS streaming technology, an M3U8 link makes it possible to integrate your stream with mobile apps and smart TV apps such as Roku, Apple TV, and the like.

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How to get an M3U8 stream URL link for your live and VOD streaming. In this post, we are going to discuss how to generate and create an M3U8 URL for live and VOD streaming. Before we get started, it’s important to know that the M3U8 links feature is not activated by default on Dacast, so you’ll have to activate it manually.

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Since using the M3U8 links directly causes many important features such as detailed analytics to be disabled, Dacast’s live stream platform users will have to contact their account manager and request access to the M3U8 privilege. How to generate and use M3U8 URL links. In order to use the M3U8 link, you must navigate to the Sharing section under the General tab of your live stream or video.

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Drop down the Advanced Video Links tab and locate the M3U8 link. Copy this link and paste it into Roku TV, Apple TV, or any private web TV channels and mobile app. The full link should look like this.

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Testing your M3U8 link. Follow these steps to test your new link. Enable your stream and launch your stream for live streaming.

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Double check that your stream is playing correctly, using the preview button in the back office or the share code. Open VLC Media Player. Click on Media and select Open Network Stream.

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Copy and paste your new M3U8 link into the field. Click Play. Once you’ve completed these five steps, your stream should appear in VLC.

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What to know about direct M3U8 links on Dacast. As you dive into mobile streaming, you should be familiar with M3U8 links. Like we mentioned, Dacast offers the option of using M3U8 links to ensure compatibility with Roku and the development of mobile apps.

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If you have any questions about accessing or using direct M3U8 URL links for live streaming, VODs or our SDKs, feel free to contact us directly. Not yet a Dacast user? Interested in trying Dacast risk-free for 14 days? Sign up today to get started.