6play is now called M6+. The platform combines live streaming and replay from the M6 group channels (M6, W9, 6ter, Gulli) into a single free application, available on browser, iOS, iPad, iPhone, and Android. Accessing live programs or watching a missed show requires no subscription, but some settings make the difference between a smooth experience and a series of bugs or unavailable content.
M6+ and M6 Max: two levels of replay to distinguish
The most common confusion concerns the coexistence of two services on the same site m6.fr. M6+ provides access to free replay with ads, while M6 Max offers an expanded, paid catalog, including series, films, and exclusives absent from the free version.
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Specifically, some programs are only available in free replay for a few days. On M6 Max, the availability duration is longer, and the catalog includes content that M6+ does not broadcast at all. Before searching for a show in replay, checking which version it is available on saves time.
For those who want to watch 6play live or access replay without a subscription, the free version of M6+ covers most flagship programs: Top Chef, L’Amour est dans le Pré, Capital, or the news broadcasts.
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Setting up the M6+ app for live streaming
The M6+ app replaces the old 6play app on all devices. If the old version is still installed, updating it from the store (App Store or Google Play) automatically switches to M6+.
Settings that improve playback
- Enable auto-play on Wi-Fi only in the app settings. This prevents interruptions due to an unstable mobile network and preserves cellular data.
- Clear the app cache regularly (under “Storage” in the phone settings). A full cache can cause black screens when launching live.
- Disable power-saving mode during playback. On both iOS and Android, this mode reduces processor performance and causes buffering on live streams.
Live streaming on M6+ requires a free account creation, even for free-to-air channels. Without an account, only certain replay clips are accessible. Registration requires an email address, nothing more.
European portability: access replay without a VPN
Most articles on the subject immediately point to a VPN to access M6+ from abroad. This solution works, but it overlooks a legal mechanism often ignored.
The European regulation 2017/1128 on the portability of online content services allows a French residential subscriber to continue accessing their streaming services from another country in the European Union. The condition: having a French TV subscription (internet box, OTT offer) that includes access to the M6 group channels.
M6+ officially limits its access to France, the DOM, Monaco, and Andorra. However, through a box or a French operator offer, portability applies during temporary stays in the EU. The internet provider must have activated this option, which is the case for the majority of French operators.
A temporary stay in the EU does not require a VPN if access is through a French residential subscription. This distinction avoids paying for an additional service for a weekend in Barcelona or a week in Lisbon.
Optimizing replay: availability durations and downloads
The duration for which a program remains accessible in replay varies depending on the type of show and the version used. Entertainment and live shows (games, magazines) generally remain available longer than fiction or films.
Free replay or extended replay
On free M6+, programs expire after a few days to a few weeks. The most popular shows benefit from a wider window, but with no fixed guarantee. On M6 Max, replay is extended, and some content remains accessible for several months.
The M6+ app also allows offline downloads of certain programs, which is useful for trips without connectivity. This feature is not activated for all content: it depends on the broadcasting rights negotiated by the group.
Advertising and the free version
The free version of M6+ imposes ad breaks before and during playback, including in replay. M6 Max removes ads for content included in the subscription. For live streaming, the ads are those from the broadcast feed and remain the same regardless of the version.
Compatible devices and multi-screen
M6+ works on web browsers (computer), iOS app (iPhone and iPad), Android app, and on certain Smart TVs via their app stores. Compatibility with Chromecast and Apple TV allows casting the image to a larger screen from a phone or tablet.
An M6+ account allows playback on multiple devices, but only one live stream simultaneously per account. Starting the live stream on a second screen cuts off playback on the first. For replay, this limitation is less strict.
The transition from 6play to M6+ did not change the login credentials. An account created under the old app remains valid, with the viewing history and favorites retained.
Checking device compatibility and understanding the difference between free M6+ and M6 Max remains the most useful starting point. The rest, namely stream quality and access to programs, mainly depends on the internet connection and proper app configuration.