Visit u.co.uk/activate to enter your code, and follow the onscreen instructions to finish linking your device to your account. The code will appear on your TV screen when you try and watch a show without signing in.
To start watching, sign in and then follow the on-screen instructions.
To activate UTV, follow these steps:
📺 Step 1: Register on u.co.uk
On your computer or mobile browser, go to u.co.uk.
Click Sign In/Register, fill out your details, and create your account. Registration is free and includes ads in exchange for access to thousands of hours of content.
📱 Step 2: Get the Activation Code
On your TV or streaming device, open the U app (formerly UKTV Play).
Try to watch any programme; you’ll see a 5-character activation code appear on-screen.
Note: the code expires after 30 minutes, and only works once.
🌐 Step 3: Activate on u.co.uk
On a different device (e.g., phone or PC), sign in to u.co.uk, or use the link provided in the TV prompt.
Enter that 5-character code, and click Activate.
You’ll see confirmation that your TV/device is now linked to your account.
✅ Step 4: Start Watching
Return to the U app on your TV or device—refresh the screen if needed.
You’re all set! You can now browse and watch shows like U&Dave, U&Drama, U&W, and U&Yesterday.
What is U?
Welcome to U, the free on demand TV service. Watch the best comedy, drama, entertainment and documentaries from U&Dave, U&Drama, U&W and U&Yesterday. Watch on your TV, mobile, tablet, or online.
Are you a stand-up comedy fan? Military history your thing? Or perhaps you fancy a bit of period drama? With numerous categories to choose from, you’ll be sure to find something to watch. Once you’ve got started, we’ll recommend shows that we think you’ll like based on your viewing history.
Browse categories and box sets, featuring some of the best comedy, drama, entertainment and documentaries. Some full box sets are available as soon as episode 1 has broadcast. Catch up on demand with your favourite TV shows from U&Dave, U&Drama, U&W and U&Yesterday.
You can stream your favourite TV shows for free via the U app on your TV, mobile, tablet or online.
How do I get started?
Before you start watching, you’ll need to register and set up an account at u.co.uk. You can start watching straight away on a computer.
To watch on your TV, phone or tablet, you’ll need to download the UKTV Play app. Then, simply follow the on-screen instructions to link it to your account.
The code can only be used once and will expire after 30 minutes. If the code has been on your TV screen for longer than this, it will be replaced with a new code.
The code is five characters long and is made up of letters and numbers only. Make sure there are no spaces or symbols when you tap it in to your account.
Once you’ve set up an account, download and open the U app on your TV or set-top box. Then, simply follow the on-screen instructions to link your TV to your account.
Is there a U App?
Yes. Download the U app to watch loads of your favourite shows on your smartphone or tablet.
Apple iPhone and iPad
The U app is compatible with iOS11.4 and above
Android phones and tablets
The U app is compatible with Android 5.0 or above. Simply download the app from Google Play and start streaming. If you have a Huawei device, you can also download our app from the Huawei AppGallery
The U app is also available from the Amazon appstore, and is compatible with 2016 and later Kindle devices running Fire OS 5 or above.
