In the UK, a TV license is required to legally watch any live TV broadcast or to stream BBC iPlayer content, regardless of the platform—including IPTV.

IPTV can be both free and paid, depending on the source and the type of content offered. Free IPTV services usually include open-source or publicly available streams, such as government-run channels, educational broadcasts, or independently owned networks. Apps like Pluto TV, FreeTV, and Plex provide legally free IPTV access to certain channels or video-on-demand libraries. These are supported by ads and offer a limited but safe experience.