Ask Our Expert

Can I get LOVEFiLM on my Xbox 360?

Our Broadband Expert says...

Hi Ross,

Yes. With your Xbox LIVE account renting games and watching movies through LOVEFiLM is really quite straightforward. As well as the console, you’ll need a fast and reliable internet connection - with a suitable download limit, or as part of an unlimited broadband deal.

Once you have everything you need, simply download and install the app, before signing in with your LOVEFiLM username and password. It’s worth remembering you can also access LOVEFiLM on a PlayStation 3, internet-connected TV or Apple iPad tablet.

The following guide explains the main options in more detail. We also look at other Xbox LIVE entertainment, such as video and streaming services from YouTube, Sky and Netflix .

How fast is my broadband?

It’s useful to know your current broadband speed to determine whether a faster connection is really what you need. The easiest way to find out is by running a free broadband speed test online. It can be done in less than a minute and works by sending a small file to your computer and timing how long it takes to download.

You should bear in mind that speeds can vary depending on when you run the test. Conducting multiple tests at different times of day will give you a more accurate idea of the speeds you’re currently getting.

Can I get LOVEFiLM on an Xbox?

The answer to this question is YES, you most definitely can. It hasn’t always been possible, but a software update in late 2011 made LOVEFiLM Instant - an online movie streaming service - available as an app on the Xbox LIVE Dashboard.

This means that with an Xbox 360, LOVEFiLM subscribers can watch films instantly on their TV. To stream LOVEFiLM content on your Xbox, you will need:

• An Xbox 360 console
• A reliable broadband connection
• An Xbox LIVE account
• Gold membership to Xbox LIVE
• A LOVEFiLM subscription that includes streaming

Once you have everything you need, sign in to Xbox LIVE then download and install the LOVEFiLM app. When you launch it, you’ll be asked to log in with your LOVEFiLM username and password. You can then start watching straight away.

How do I stream LOVEFiLM and Netflix on my Xbox/ iPad/ PS3/ Wii?

What is Xbox LIVE?

Xbox LIVE is an online service exclusive to Microsoft’s Xbox 360 console. It allows users to play games and interact with their friends, as well as access additional entertainment in the form of various apps, just like LOVEFiLM. You need to create an account, which you’ll be signed in with each time you use Xbox LIVE features. A reliable broadband connection is also required.

How much does it cost?

Standard membership to Xbox LIVE is free to anyone with an Xbox 360 console. This gives you access to basic features, like downloading game content and add-ons. Most of what it offers, like the ability to play games with friends online, is only available with a Gold account.

A summary of the Xbox LIVE membership options:

* Information correct as of January 2012

Is LOVEFiLM available on other devices?

As well as on the Xbox and computers with a broadband connection, LOVEFiLM is available on a range of mobile devices and other games consoles. Below is a quick guide on how else you can access the LOVEFiLM Instant steaming service:

• PlayStation 3 - It couldn’t be easier to access LOVEFiLM on Sony’s console. All you need is reliable broadband and to be a member of the PlayStation Network. You also need an active LOVEFiLM subscription, of course, but then you should be good to go. Simply load the app on your PS3 - it can be accessed via the Video section of the Xross Media Bar.
• iPad - With an Apple iPad device you can carry LOVEFiLM’s extensive library wherever you choose to wander. It’s very easy - just download the free LOVEFiLM Player app from the Apple iPad App Store, install and then open it. Again, you need an active subscription and the app requires iOS version 4.3 or above to be installed on your iPad.
• TV - You can also access LOVEFiLM on selected internet-connected “smart” TVs and Blu-ray players. As well as a LOVEFiLM Ready device, you need a strong broadband connection and an active LOVEFiLM subscription. Simply connect your TV or Blu-ray player and follow the on-screen instructions to link it with your LOVEFiLM account.

Tip - For a full list of compatible devices, visit the LOVEFiLM website.

Can I get LOVEFiLM on a Nintendo Wii?

No. There is currently no LOVEFiLM Instant on the Nintendo Wii. This means that, while the site does have Nintendo Wii games available to rent, there is no online movie streaming function at present. However, rival TV and film service Netflix does provide instant streaming for Nintendo Wii.

What else is available on Xbox LIVE?

Thanks to a steady stream of Microsoft updates, what Xbox LIVE can offer should keep improving as time rolls on. Below are just some of its other applications:

• Netflix - A similar service to LOVEFiLM. Instantly watch thousands of films and TV shows. Simply download the Netflix application on your Xbox 360 and sign in to your Netflix account. If you aren’t already a member, you may be eligible for a free trial.
• Sky - Watch TV from Sky on your Xbox 360. It’s free for paying Sky TV customers, but can also be accessed with a Sky Go monthly ticket. Enjoy up to 32 live channels, including all five Sky Sports channels, Sky Movies, Sky 1 and Sky Atlantic.
• 4oD - This is a Channel 4 catch-up service and works in a similar way to BBC iPlayer. It gives you a large selection of Channel 4, E4 and More4 shows from the past 30 days, as well as the best of Channel 4’s archive of programmes from its 25 years on British TV.
• YouTube - It’s an endless source of “original” web content from across the globe. From the latest viral clips to gaming tutorials and music videos, YouTube on Xbox LIVE gives you access to the world’s biggest video library on the biggest screen in the house.
• Screenrush - A useful app for the film fans among us, Screenrush lets you watch trailers, find showtimes and check reviews of movies currently showing at the cinema.

Is my broadband fast enough for LOVEFiLM?

To instantly stream LOVEFiLM on your Xbox, PlayStation, computer, TV or Blu-ray player, you will need a broadband speed of at least 2Mb for reasonable performance and picture quality. Some of the cheapest deals around may not provide sufficient bandwidth.

If you’re experiencing problems with wireless, connect your LOVEFiLM device to your internet router via Ethernet cable, rather than Wi-Fi. Alternatively, locate your Wi-Fi hub closer to the device you’re trying to use. If you’re still having trouble, you may need a faster broadband connection.

Use the free Broadbandchoices.co.uk Speed Tester to find out how fast your broadband is. To see if you could be getting a better deal by switching broadband provider, use our postcode search to find the best deals in your area.

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