UKTV Play became U on 16 July 2024, so the current way to watch on a television is to install the U app and link it to your U account. Open the app, get the five-character code shown on your screen, then enter it at u.co.uk/activate. The service is free and supported by advertising; its catalogue and availability depend on location, device and programme rights.
What happened to UKTV Play?
UKTV rebranded its free streaming service as U on 16 July 2024. The free-to-air channel brands were also reorganised under names including U&Dave, U&Drama, U&Yesterday and U&W. “UKTV Play activation” remains a common way to describe the sign-in task, but UKTV Play is not a separate current service to install. Look for the U app instead. UKTV’s announcement of the U launch explains the change.
U is UKTV’s free, advertising-supported streaming service for on-demand programmes. Its catalogue includes programming associated with UKTV’s free-to-air brands, but not every programme from every channel is necessarily available: selection can vary with rights and platform. Some UKTV content, including material associated with U&Gold and U&Alibi, may be distributed separately through paid television partners. U is not the same thing as a Sky, Virgin Media or NOW television package. See UKTV’s channel and service information and the U app listing on Google Play.
What you need before activation
- A U account and its sign-in details. U says registration is required for television viewing; you can watch on a computer after registering, while TV, phone and tablet viewing uses the relevant app. U’s FAQ has its account and viewing guidance.
- A compatible television, set-top box or streaming device, connected to the internet.
- The U app installed on that device.
- A phone or computer to open the official activation page.
- A current code displayed by the TV app. U describes it as five letters and numbers.
U is intended for viewers in the UK. An accessible app or activation page does not mean programmes will play outside the UK, where availability is restricted. UKTV’s service information describes U as UK-only.
#1 Best Overall
- 【Compatible Devices】Universal replacement remote control is compatible with TV brands for Samsung, LG, Vizio, Sony, Hisense, Onn, Sharp, RCA, Element, Westinghouse, Sanyo, Emerson, Philips, JVC, Sceptre, Sansui, Panasonic, Magnavox, Skyworth TV and More Brand Smart TVs. Compatible with of devices, including DVD/Blu-ray players, Media Streaming Players and more!
- 【NOT Compatible Devices】Universal remote is Not compatible with Roku Streaming Sticks, Roku Sound Bar, TLC Sound Bar, Hisense Sound Bar, Anker Sound Bar, Klipsch Sound Bar, All Fire TV, All TV Sticks, All TV Cube, Apple TV, Google Chromecast TV(This product can only be connected and paired via infrared) If you are unsure if our remote control is compatible with your device, please contact us.
- 【Simple Setup】Step 1: Find the device type you need in the code list. Then find and circle all the codes for the brand. Step 2: Press and hold down the (SETUP) button for 3 seconds until the red light on the remote turns on. Step 3: Press and release the (TV/STR/AUD) button on the remote, the red light will blink once and remain on. Step 4: Enter the first 4-digit code from code list. Step 5: Point the remote at the TV, and test the buttons on the remote to see if the TV responds as you would expect. If the buttons don't control the TV, repeat steps 2-4 and enter different code to test. Note:If all the code in the program fails, please check the instructions on page 7 "Automatic Code Search.
- 【Package Included】Package includes 1* Remote Control, 1* User Manual, and 1* Code list. The universal remote control is to use 2 * AAA alkaline batteries(Batteries are not included). Note: Please do not mix old and new batteries or mix different batteries together.
- 【After-Sales Service】We attach great importance to the customer's experience of using remote controls. If you have any questions about your order or product, please contact us and we will get back to you within 24 hours on working days.
How to activate U on your TV
- Install and open U. Search your television’s app store or device app catalogue for “U.” An old search result or device menu may still use UKTV Play wording, but current instructions and branding use U.
- Start the sign-in flow. Select the app’s sign-in, link-device or activation option. On some devices, the code appears after you choose a programme while signed out. Button names vary by device and app version.
- Note the code shown on the television. Check all five characters carefully. Treat it as a temporary linking code, not as a password.
- Open the official activation page on a phone or computer. Go to https://u.co.uk/activate. Check that the address is on u.co.uk rather than a third-party site.
- Sign in to the U account you want to use if prompted, then enter the code exactly as displayed. Do not add spaces or punctuation.
- Return to the television. The app should refresh or complete the link. If it remains on the code screen, try refreshing or closing and reopening U.
How long the activation code lasts
U says its five-character TV code can be used once and expires after 30 minutes. If it has expired, has already been submitted, or is rejected, generate a fresh one in the TV app and enter only that current code at the official activation page. U’s FAQ confirms the code format and expiry.
Which TVs and streaming devices can use U?
UKTV lists U across a range of platforms, including Freeview Play, Freesat, Freely, Amazon Fire TV, Samsung TV, YouView, Roku, Apple TV, Virgin Media, Sky Glass and Sky Stream, as well as web browsers and Android and iOS apps. Platform availability does not guarantee support on every older model or software version; check the app catalogue on your own device and keep its software current. UKTV’s platform information provides the broad availability list.
Rank #2
- 【All In One Remote】 Universal remote control for most TV: It works with most major TV: Samsung, Vizio, LG, Hisense, TCL, Philips, Sony Smart TV and Roku TV, allowing you to conveniently control different TVs with just one remote.
- 【Please note】 This universal remote is NOT compatible with the following devices: Roku Streaming Sticks Any TV Sticks (all brands) All TV Cubes Roku, TCL, Hisense, Anker, or Klipsch Sound Bars All Fi TV Devices This remote connects and pairs via infrared only. If you're unsure whether this remote works with your device, please contact us before purchasing.
- 【One-Click Streaming Access】 Get instant access to your favorite streaming apps like NFLX, Video, Dis+, and Hulu with dedicated hot keys—no more scrolling through menus.
- 【Quick & Easy Setup】 Start using your new remote right away. Designed for most major TVs, setup is a breeze: simply add two AAA batteries (not included), then press and hold the two setup buttons. The included manual will walk you through the rest—no fuss.
- 【Worry-Free 90-Day Warranty】 Your satisfaction is our priority. To ensure a great experience, we stand behind our products with a 90-day return warranty. If you have any questions, please contact us directly. We guarantee a response within 12 hours.
U’s streaming-device guidance adds several generation-specific details: Apple TV support starts with fourth-generation boxes; the app is available on Roku streaming players and Amazon Fire TV boxes and sticks; and U is available on new NOW boxes but not early white NOW boxes. Android and iOS users can cast to a television using the app’s cast button. Check U’s streaming-device guide for its current platform guidance.
If your existing television has no U app, a compatible HDMI streaming player is an option, not a requirement for everyone. A supported smart TV or device you already own may be enough. For an older television, check the exact model and app availability before buying a player; U is free to access, so buying premium hardware solely to activate it may not make sense.
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- 【Package lncluded】 Pack of 2 remote. Two-pack remote control can solve your home backup remote control needs. Infrared remote no pairing or programming needed. Just Insert 2 Pcs*AAA batteries to get it work(Batteries and manual are not included)
- 【Applicable Type】This infrared replacement remote works with all Samsung Smart TV, LED, LCD, HDTV, 3D, Series TV,Compatible with All Samsung Series TVs. We offer you an authentic details same as we advertised.
- 【Key Features】The universal infrared TV remote features 3 shortcut buttons. It is perfect to replace your old or damaged Samsung TV Remote with the Loutoc remote.
- 【Quick Response】This is the updated infrared remote control for Samsung TVs. An outstanding response between TV and remotes, it will respond quickly in 0.5 seconds, available directly use within 10 meters (32 feet).
- 【After-sale Service】We provide 30 days warranty with no condition return or exchange. If you have any query, please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible within 24 hours.
Fix a rejected or missing code
If the code is rejected
- Return to the TV app and request a new code, especially if more than 30 minutes have passed or you have already submitted it.
- Check that the code entered is the latest one on screen and that each letter or number has been read correctly.
- Use u.co.uk/activate, sign in to the intended account and enter the five characters without spaces or symbols.
- If the television does not update after the code is accepted, close and reopen U, or restart the device and try again.
If no code appears
- While signed out, try selecting a programme, or look for an on-screen option such as “Sign in,” “Link TV” or “Activate.” The wording varies by device.
- Close and reopen the app, then check the device’s internet connection.
- Confirm that you installed U rather than a separate UKTV channel app, and check whether your device software or app needs updating.
Fix a playback problem after linking
Activation links the TV app to an account; it does not remove geographic or programme rights restrictions, make unsupported hardware compatible or fix a connection or service problem. If U opens but a programme will not play, try another title and check the internet connection. A specific programme may have different availability from the rest of the catalogue.
U’s FAQ addresses cases where adverts play but the programme does not and advises contacting U if the issue persists. You can also close and reopen the app, check for updates, or clear the app cache where the device provides that option. If you are outside the UK, the UK-only restriction may be the reason; changing account settings or using a VPN is not an officially established route to access and does not change programme rights. U’s FAQ covers playback support.
Rank #4
- Compatible TV Brands: Replacement Universal Smart TV Remote Control for TV brands including Samsung, LG, Hisense, TCL, Vizio, Sony, Onn, Toshiba, Philips, Element, Westinghouse, Sharp, Emerson, Sanyo, and RCA
- Compatible Other Devices: Universal Remote Control compatible with DVD, Blu ray Player, Soundbar, Streaming Media Player, Set Top Boxes, DVR, VCR, and Audio Devices including brands such as Sony, LG, Panasonic, Samsung, Bose, and Vizio
- Setup Methods: Find your TV code in the CODE LIST, press and hold down the SETUP button until the remote's red light turns on, press and release the chosen device button on the remote (TV/STR/AUD Button), enter the first 4-digit code for your device, point the remote at the device and test the buttons. If the buttons do not work as expected, repeat steps for the next code of the device until each button is working properly (Automatic pairing method on pages 8-9 of the manual)
- Package Includes: 1 Universal TV Remote Control, 1 User Manual, 1 Code List (batteries not included)
- Design Features: 26 feet long-distance remote control with 0.2 seconds fast response time, 50,000 times presses for durability, and requires 2 AAA batteries (batteries not included in package)
Amazon Fire tablet reporting an incorrect location
U notes that some Fire tablets may report a non-UK location even when the user is physically in the UK. Its suggested checks are to open Settings > Device options > Date and Time, ensure the time zone is appropriate for the UK, and clear the device cache. This is a Fire-tablet-specific note, not a general fix for all Android devices. U’s FAQ gives the device-specific guidance.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Do you need to pay for U?
The U streaming service is free and advertising-supported; linking a TV does not by itself sign you up for a paid subscription. It also does not include every piece of UKTV content or make paid television packages interchangeable. Sky, Virgin Media and NOW may distribute UKTV channels or content through their own services, which are separate from using the free U app. UKTV’s announcement about U on Sky Q describes one such platform arrangement.
Best Value
- PACKAGE INCLUDED: Pack of 2 remote. Two-pack remote control can solve your home backup remote control needs. Infrared remote no pairing or programming needed. Just Insert 2 Pcs*AAA batteries to get it work (Batteries and manual are not included)
- EXACT COMPATIBILITY: Acoyer universal remote control only for Roku Series TVs, Compatible with TCL Roku TVs, Hisense Roku TVs, Onn Roku TVs, Sharp Roku TVs, Element Roku TVs, Westinghouse Roku TVs, Philips Roku TVs, Insignia Roku TVs, JVC Roku TVs, RCA Roku TVs, Hitachi Roku TVs and Sanyo Roku TVs Series.
- NOT APPLICABLE: TV Remote is NOT Compatible with Roku Stick/Streaming Stick/ Box(1/2/3/4(HD/LT/XS/XD))/ Ultra/ Express/ Premiere/ Player. NOT Compatible with TCL TV, Hisense TV, Onn TV, Sharp TV, Element TV, Westinghouse TV, Philips TV, Insignia TV, JVC TV, RCA TV, Hitachi TV and Sanyo TVs.
- SHORTCUT BUTTONS: Get to favorite apps quickly with shortcut buttons and it have 4 shortcuts buttons. Precisely control far from 10 meters/30 feet and it supports over total 160,000 clicks for all buttons via approved tests.
- AFTER SALE SERVICE: Acoyer remote controls with an unlimited return and refund service in 1-year warranty. If you have any questions or concerns regarding your order, please feel to reach out to us.
Use the official U website for activation and do not post your temporary code publicly. If you have no compatible device, check device support before buying hardware; if you already have a supported TV or player, there is no need to purchase another one just to link an account.
Quick Recap
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