With the NPO Start app you can catch up on programs from NPO 1, NPO 2, NPO 3 and all the other Dutch public channels. Missed your favorite series or talk show? No problem: with NPO Start you can watch everything again on your smartphone, tablet or smart TV. In this article we explain how the app works and how to get the most out of the public broadcaster's free streaming service.

What is NPO Start?

NPO Start is the free streaming service of the Nederlandse Publieke Omroep (the Dutch public broadcaster). The service gives you access to all broadcasts from the public channels, from current affairs programs and documentaries to series and children's programs. Most content is available for free with limited advertising. With an NPO Plus subscription you get extra benefits such as fewer ads and exclusive content.

The app replaces the old NPO Gemist app and offers a more modern interface with more features. Besides catching up, you can also watch live TV from all NPO channels. This makes NPO Start a complete solution for anyone who wants to watch public broadcasting, anytime and anywhere.

Installing the NPO Start app

Download the NPO Start app for free from the Google Play Store, the Apple App Store or your smart TV's app store. The app is available for Android, iOS, Apple TV, Android TV, Samsung Smart TV and more. After installing it, you can start watching right away. Registering is not required for basic functionality, but it is recommended for personalized recommendations and a watchlist.

The first time you open the app, you can create a free NPO account. You do this with your email address. With an account, your viewing preferences are saved, you can add programs to your watchlist and you receive personalized recommendations. You can also sign in on multiple devices to sync your watchlist.

Finding and catching up on programs

The NPO Start app is organized into clear categories. On the home page you'll find featured programs, popular content and recently added episodes. Browse categories such as documentaries, series, news or sports to discover content. The search function at the top helps you find specific programs.

Once you have found a program, tap it for more information. You'll see a description, all available episodes and related content. Select an episode to play it right away. Most broadcasts are available shortly after the original airing and stay online for at least a week, often longer.

Watching live TV

Besides catching up, you can also watch live TV through NPO Start. In the menu you'll find a live TV option that shows all NPO channels. Select a channel to start the live stream. This is handy if you don't have a television or want to watch on the go. The quality adjusts automatically to your internet connection.

NPO Plus: premium features

NPO Plus is the paid NPO Start subscription that offers extra benefits. With NPO Plus you watch with fewer ads, which means you don't have to wait for commercials before and during programs. You also get access to exclusive content and can catch up on episodes for longer.

An NPO Plus subscription costs a small monthly fee and has no notice period, so you can cancel any month. For frequent viewers who want to avoid ads, the subscription can be worth it. During special promotions a trial period is sometimes available so you can try NPO Plus for free.

Kids profile

NPO Start offers a special kids profile called Zappelin. This profile only shows child-friendly content from Zappelin and NPO Zapp. You can protect the kids profile with a PIN so children can't accidentally watch adult content. That way the little ones can safely watch their favorite programs.

Watchlist and continue watching

With an NPO account you can add programs to your watchlist. See something interesting that you want to watch later? Tap the plus icon to add it. Your watchlist is available from the menu and syncs across all devices where you are signed in.

The app also remembers where you left off in a program. If you stop watching halfway through, you can later pick up exactly where you left off. This feature works automatically and is very handy for long documentaries or series you watch in parts.

Chromecast and AirPlay

Want to watch NPO Start on a big screen? The app supports Chromecast and AirPlay. With Chromecast you stream content wirelessly from your phone to your TV using a Chromecast device. Tap the cast icon in the app and select your Chromecast to start streaming.

For Apple users, AirPlay works the same way. Make sure your iPhone or iPad and Apple TV are connected to the same Wi-Fi network. Start a program and tap the AirPlay icon to send the picture to your television. Your phone then works as a remote control.

Subtitles and accessibility

NPO Start offers extensive subtitle options. Most programs have Dutch subtitles available, which is handy for people who are hard of hearing or in situations where you want to watch without sound. You turn on subtitles through the gear icon during playback. There you can also adjust the text size and background.

Some programs also have audio description for people who are visually impaired. This is a spoken description of what is happening on screen. Where available, you can turn it on through the same settings. NPO is committed to accessible content for everyone.

Watching offline

With NPO Plus you can download selected programs to watch offline. This is ideal on the go, for example during a train journey or flight when you don't have a stable internet connection. Downloads remain available for a limited time and take up storage space on your device.

Not all content is available for download because of rights restrictions. Movies and some series from external producers may be excluded. The app clearly shows which programs can be downloaded with a download icon next to the episode.

Troubleshooting

Having problems with the NPO Start app? Many problems can be solved by closing and reopening the app, or by restarting your device. Also check that your internet connection is stable, because streaming requires a constant connection.

If a specific program won't play, this may be due to temporary technical issues or regional restrictions. Some content is only available in the Netherlands because of broadcasting rights. Outside the Netherlands, not all programs work. If problems persist, you can contact NPO customer service through the website.

Frequently asked questions

Is NPO Start free to use?

Yes, NPO Start is free with ads. You can catch up on all public broadcasts and stream live TV. With NPO Plus (a paid subscription) you get fewer ads and extra features such as downloads.

How long do programs stay available on NPO Start?

Most programs are available for at least 7 days after broadcast. NPO's own productions often stay online longer, sometimes for years. External content such as movies may be available for a shorter time because of rights.

Can I use NPO Start abroad?

NPO Start works to a limited extent abroad. A lot of content is only available in the Netherlands because of broadcasting rights. Some programs can be watched internationally; this varies by program.

How do I turn on subtitles in NPO Start?

Start a program and tap the gear icon (settings) during playback. There you can turn on and adjust subtitles. Most programs have Dutch subtitles available.

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