Stream live TV, series, and on-demand shows with personalized recommendations and simple navigation
Stream live TV, series, and on-demand shows with personalized recommendations and simple navigation
Vote (2 votes)
Program license Free
Developer RTL interactive GmbH
Version 7.7.0
Works under Android
Vote
(2 votes)
Developer
RTL interactive GmbH
Works under
Android
Program license
Free
Version
7.7.0
Pros
- Extensive catalog of series, reality shows, sports, music, and audiobooks
- Early access to exclusive RTL shows and live sports coverage
- 14 TV livestreams and on-demand viewing
- Integrated music and audiobook streaming (RTL+ Max)
- Simple subscription management
Cons
- Frequent and sometimes lengthy ads, even for premium users
- No dedicated watch history or continue watching list
- Lack of robust playback controls
- Cumbersome navigation for finding and resuming content
- Some content and features restricted by location
Entertainment streaming platform for series, live sports, music, and more.
Comprehensive Selection of German Entertainment
RTL+ positions itself as a premium all-in-one streaming platform tailored for German-speaking audiences. The app boasts a broad catalog featuring over 2,000 TV series, reality shows, movies, extensive live sports coverage, a huge music and audiobook library, podcasts, and magazines. Popular RTL-exclusive content includes daily dramas like "Gute Zeiten, schlechte Zeiten," reality hits such as "Die Bachelorette," and original series like "Der König von Palma."
Live Streaming and Early Access
Live broadcast fans have access to 14 TV channels, covering RTL, VOX, and more. RTL+ further distinguishes itself by allowing subscribers to watch certain series episodes up to seven days ahead of their regular TV schedule. For major sporting events, including exclusive rights to UEFA Europa League, Conference League, and selected NFL games, the platform offers both live streams and the option to watch replays at your convenience—though some live sports are restricted to German residents due to licensing rules.
Music, Podcasts, and Audiobooks
With over 120 million songs and more than 100,000 audiobooks integrated into the RTL+ Max tier, the app extends beyond standard video streaming. This inclusion positions the service as one of the more versatile entertainment solutions on the German market. Exclusive podcasts and digital magazines round out the offer, making it valuable for users seeking more than just video content.
User Experience and Performance
While the breadth of RTL+ is impressive, user feedback highlights significant issues with the app’s usability, especially for those expecting a "premium" experience. Advertisements are a recurring pain point—even for paying subscribers. Reports suggest frequent and lengthy ad breaks during live broadcasts, such as Formula 1, significantly disrupt viewing. This diminishes the premium appeal when compared to ad-free competitors.
Navigation within the app also leaves room for improvement. Key features such as a dedicated "watch history" are missing, requiring users to search for previously watched content repeatedly. Playback controls lack basic tools like quick skipping to a specific timestamp. Starting an episode may involve several redundant steps, and ads can replay if the app is closed and reopened, frustrating users trying to resume content swiftly.
Additionally, the lack of an easy exit option from within the app and absence of advanced video controls may detract from the convenience expected by modern streaming audiences.
Availability and Technical Details
RTL+ is available in Germany, Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein, and Luxembourg, with varying access to content based on location. The app requires a steady internet connection and may not perform as intended on devices with modified operating systems. Subscriptions are easy to manage, with monthly billing and straightforward cancellation options.
Final Verdict
RTL+ delivers one of the most diverse entertainment portfolios in the German-speaking market, with particular strength in RTL’s original programming and exclusives. However, persistent advertisements and subpar usability features on the app’s interface can make the experience less satisfying, especially for users paying for higher-tier access.
Pros
- Extensive catalog of series, reality shows, sports, music, and audiobooks
- Early access to exclusive RTL shows and live sports coverage
- 14 TV livestreams and on-demand viewing
- Integrated music and audiobook streaming (RTL+ Max)
- Simple subscription management
Cons
- Frequent and sometimes lengthy ads, even for premium users
- No dedicated watch history or continue watching list
- Lack of robust playback controls
- Cumbersome navigation for finding and resuming content
- Some content and features restricted by location
