Fix buffering and streaming issues on NOW

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If NOW keeps buffering or loading slowly, the most common causes are a slow or unstable internet connection, network congestion, or a device or app issue. Start by checking your connection speed, then restart your router, update the NOW app and device software, and try streaming again.

 

Follow the troubleshooting steps below to resolve common playback issues.

 

Fix buffering and slow streaming on NOW

Step 1: Check your internet connection

A slow or unstable internet connection is one of the most common causes of buffering and slow loading. Check your speed using one of these websites:

 

• Speedtest.net
• Cnet.com

 

Good to know: To watch NOW using Wi-Fi or broadband, you need a speed of at least 2.5Mbps. For 3G or 4G devices the minimum speed needed is 450Kbps.

 

If your speed is lower than expected:

 

• Move closer to your Wi‑Fi router if possible.
• Pause any downloads or streaming on other devices.
• Run the speed test again.
• Contact your internet provider if your speeds remain consistently low.

 

Step 2: Restart your router

Refreshing your connection can fix temporary network issues.

 

1. Switch off your router and modem (if separate).
2. Wait 30 seconds.
3. Turn them back on.
4. Wait for the internet connection to fully reconnect.
5. Open the NOW app and try streaming again.

 

Step 3: Stop other devices using your connection

If you’re playing online games, downloading or uploading large files while trying to watch a show, this may be affecting your streaming quality.

 

• Pause any unnecessary activity on your network.
• Close streaming apps on devices you're not using.
• Try streaming on NOW again.

 

Step 4: Try a wired connection (if supported)

If you're watching on a supported TV, streaming device, or games console, an Ethernet connection may provide a more stable connection than Wi-Fi.

 

• Connect your device directly to your router using an Ethernet cable.
• Try streaming again.

 

Tip: If playback improves when using Ethernet, the issue may be related to your Wi‑Fi network rather than the NOW app or service. This could be caused by signal strength, wireless interference, or a problem with your router.

 

Step 5: Check for device updates

Out-of-date device software can sometimes affect app performance and streaming quality.

 

• Check whether any software updates are available for your device.
• Install any available updates.
• Restart your device before trying to watch on the app again.

 

Step 6: Uninstall and reinstall the NOW app

Reinstalling the app can resolve streaming issues caused by corrupted app files.

 

1. Remove the NOW app from your device.
2. Restart your device.
3. Download and install the latest version of the app.
4. Sign back in and try streaming again.

 

Device-specific buffering fixes

For device-specific troubleshooting, select the device you're using below:

• Fix streaming problems on Apple TV
• Fix NOW Box or Smart Stick problems
• Fix streaming issues on my PS4 or PS5
• Fix problems with your Roku player

 

Can't see your device listed?

Some devices have their own troubleshooting steps. If your device isn't listed above, check for software updates, make sure you're using the latest version of the NOW app, and restart both your device and your internet connection before trying to watch NOW again.

 

Still need help?

If you’ve tried all of the steps above and your stream is still buffering or loading slowly, get in touch by live chat and have the following information ready:

 

• Device type and model
• Whether you're using Wi‑Fi or Ethernet
• When the issue started
• Any error messages displayed
• The show, movie or sport you were trying to watch.

 

Having this information ready will help us investigate faster.

 

Last updated by a NOW content editor on 24/09/2026.

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