RTÉ Player for PC
Reviewed by Apps Playground Editorial Team · Updated
What's New
This update brings bug fixes and performance improvements to keep the app running smoothly, picking up where the last release left off.
Version 3.170.0 · · 82.0 MBLatest
The team has worked through a new round of fixes and refinements. If you've noticed anything that felt off, there's a good chance it's been addressed. Keeping up with updates ensures you get the best viewing experience.
Version 3.162.2 · · 85.8 MB
You're settling in at your desk with a cup of tea, wanting to catch up on an RTÉ drama or live sports coverage, and instead of hunching over a phone, RTÉ Player expands across a proper monitor. Running RTÉ Player on PC lets you watch live RTÉ One, RTÉ2, and RTÉ News Now in full detail, browse box sets and originals with a real keyboard, and keep your session open while you work or multitask nearby. The app brings Irish TV, news, and exclusive content to your desktop in a format that actually suits longer viewing.
RTÉ Player on your computer shifts how you access Irish broadcasting. Instead of shrinking shows to a phone screen, you get live streams, on-demand content, and full playback controls at a scale that lets you settle in for an entire episode or match. The desktop experience also letting you stay logged in across work sessions without re-authenticating constantly.
What You Can Watch on RTÉ Player
The app pulls together live channels, box sets, and original shorts. You'll find current RTÉ dramas alongside cult classics like Dawson's Creek and Bachelor's Walk. RTÉ Player Originals run 3–12 minutes on average, designed for breaks in your day but equally watchable on a bigger screen. Sports coverage, including World Cup matches, streams live, and the live re-start feature lets you rewind to replay key moments without waiting for a replay broadcast.
Setting Up Your Viewing Session
Getting started involves these core steps:
- Install RTÉ Player for Windows PC and launch it at your desk
- Sign in with your RTÉ account credentials or create one if new
- Browse the on-demand library or select a live channel from the home screen
- Adjust playback settings: audio description, Irish Sign Language options, or data usage controls
- If you have a Smart TV nearby, use Chromecast to cast the stream to your big screen
- Return to your desktop to manage playback or switch between shows
Desktop Features That Change Your Routine
A few capabilities matter more on PC than on mobile. You can search the full catalogue using a real keyboard rather than tapping letters on a phone screen. Kids Mode lets you set a parental pin once on one machine, securing your household's access without re-entering it on every device. The app remembers your sign-in, so returning to RTÉ Player for computer viewing skips the login friction of the mobile version. Audio description and Irish Sign Language preferences stick to your account, meaning your accessibility choices follow you whether you're watching from your desk or casting to another screen.
When Live Coverage Matters
Live streaming of RTÉ One, RTÉ2, and RTÉ News Now works best when you're already at your machine, making it natural live TV streaming software for desktop sessions rather than mobile juggling. RTÉjr live streaming offers a dedicated safe space for children's viewing, and the archive and food channels add depth to the live roster. Fans of factual entertainment and live broadcasts will find the live re-start feature useful for catching the moment that mattered during a match or event.
How to Download and Install RTÉ Player for PC or MAC:
Select an Android emulator: There are many free and paid Android emulators available for PC and MAC, few of the popular ones are Bluestacks, Andy OS, Nox, MeMu and there are more you can find from Google.
Compatibility: Before downloading them take a look at the minimum system requirements to install the emulator on your PC.
For example, BlueStacks requires OS: Windows 10, Windows 8.1, Windows 8, Windows 7, Windows Vista SP2, Windows XP SP3 (32-bit only), Mac OS Sierra(10.12), High Sierra (10.13) and Mojave(10.14), 2-4GB of RAM, 4GB of disk space for storing Android apps/games, updated graphics drivers.
Finally, download and install the emulator which will work well with your PC's hardware/software.
- Open the emulator software from the start menu or desktop shortcut in your PC.
- Associate or set up your Google account with the emulator.
- You can either install the app from Google PlayStore inside the emulator or download RTÉ Player APK file and open the APK file with the emulator or drag the file into the emulator window to install RTÉ Player for PC.
You can follow above instructions to install RTÉ Player for PC with any of the Android emulators available.
Download RTÉ Player
RTÉ Player for PC
FAQ
Does RTÉ Player work outside Ireland?
Yes. Users report watching the app from the United Kingdom and while on holiday abroad, letting you access Irish news, drama, and sports from anywhere. This is one of the main reasons people choose RTÉ Player for computer setups, staying connected to home broadcasts regardless of location.
Can I watch RTÉ Player on my TV using my PC?
The app supports Chromecast, so if you have a Smart TV, you can cast the stream from your computer to your TV screen. This gives you a larger display and lets you control playback from your PC while watching on the bigger screen.
What happens if the stream cuts out or freezes?
Some users report streams freezing or cutting out during live broadcasts. If this occurs, try reloading the stream or restarting the app. Ensure your internet connection is stable and that you're not running too many other applications at the same time.
Is there a way to control data usage on PC?
Yes. RTÉ Player for Windows PC includes a data-use selection feature, allowing you to adjust streaming quality or limit bandwidth if you're on a capped connection. Check the app settings to find playback or data options.
Do I have to watch ads with RTÉ Player?
The app includes ad breaks during playback. If a stream reloads, you may need to watch ads again before playback resumes. This is standard across the platform.
The editorial team installs and tests each app before writing up the guide, and keeps the version history current. The site has never charged developers for coverage.