How to Watch ITV in the US
To watch ITV in the US, use a VPN with UK servers to bypass regional restrictions. Hide Expert VPN enables access to ITV Hub by connecting through the UK, helping to overcome location-based blocks.
What options exist to watch ITV from the US?
- VPN with UK servers: Connect to a UK server using a VPN to make ITV Hub think you’re in the UK.
- Official international partners: Sometimes streaming rights allow ITV content on platforms like BritBox, but not all ITV shows are available and often with delays.
- ITVX apps: ITV’s app (formerly ITV Hub, now ITVX) is available on iOS and Android, but it may not appear in US app stores without region changes.
For most viewers, a VPN is the most direct way to watch live and on-demand ITV content from the US.
Are there official streaming services or apps available?
ITV’s own streaming service, ITVX, is only available to users physically located in the UK. The app may be found in UK app stores, but is often hidden from US users unless their device region is set to the UK. Some ITV shows are licensed to BritBox, which is available in the US, but the selection is limited and it doesn’t cover live broadcasts. No US cable or streaming provider offers comprehensive, direct ITV access.
How to get ITV in the US: step-by-step guide
- Sign up for a VPN service with UK servers, such as Hide Expert VPN.
- Install the VPN app on your device (Windows, Mac, iOS, Android, etc.).
- Connect to a server located in the UK.
- (Optional) If using a mobile device, set your app store’s region to the UK to download the ITVX app. For iOS, this means creating a UK Apple ID; for Android, switching your Google Play region.
- Visit the ITVX website or open the ITVX app. You may need to create a free ITV account, using a valid UK postcode (any valid UK postcode will work for registration).
- Try streaming live or on-demand content. If you see a location error, ensure your VPN is connected and your browser/app is not leaking your real location.
After setup, you can watch most ITV shows live or on catch-up. For troubleshooting, check your VPN connection and clear cookies if you still get location errors.
Technical and subscription requirements
- VPN subscription: Reliable access requires a VPN with UK servers. Some free VPNs may not work due to ITV blocking known VPN IPs.
- ITV account: Registration is free, but required for streaming. ITV asks for a UK postcode during sign-up.
- Device compatibility: ITVX works on web browsers and has apps for iOS, Android, and select smart TVs (if set to the UK region).
- Internet speed: For smooth streaming, a stable broadband connection is recommended; VPNs may reduce speed slightly.
- Payment: ITVX offers free access with ads, and a paid tier for ad-free streaming. A UK payment method is required only for the premium tier.
How to handle regional restrictions or blackouts
ITV restricts access based on your IP address and sometimes uses GPS or device settings to double-check your location. If you still get a region error:
- Make sure your VPN is connected to a UK server before opening ITVX.
- Clear your browser cookies and cache, or use incognito mode.
- Disable location services or GPS on your device if prompted.
- If the app store hides ITVX, change your device’s region settings to the UK.
- Some live sports or shows may be unavailable due to rights issues even with a UK IP; in these cases, there may not be a workaround.
For more on accessing sites from abroad and troubleshooting, see this guide.
Summary: Key points for watching ITV in the US
- ITV’s streaming is officially UK-only, but you can access it from the US using a VPN with UK servers.
- Some ITV content is available via BritBox in the US, but not all shows or live streams.
- You need to register for an ITVX account and may need to adjust your device region to get the app.
- Check your VPN connection and device settings if you encounter access or blackout errors.