In Portugal in 2025, the way people watch television and video content is undergoing a major shift. The traditional model of linear channels delivered via cable or satellite is being complemented — and in some cases challenged — by two alternative delivery models:
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Streaming services (OTT or over‑the‑top) such as Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime Video etc. that deliver on‑demand libraries and increasingly live content via internet.
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IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) services delivering live channel line‑ups, video‑on‑demand, catch‐up and multi‑device access over broadband/internet.
This article explores IPTV PORTUGAL how these two models compare in the Portuguese market: how big each is, how they differ, how they overlap, what each offers to viewers, what the implications are for traditional TV providers, and ultimately how the media landscape is evolving. We’ll also look at key trends in Portugal for 2025 and offer insights for viewers and industry alike.
The Current State in Portugal
Streaming Services
According to recent data, streaming services have reached a new high in Portugal: by end of 2024 about 52 % of the Portuguese population were using at least one streaming service.More specifically, 42.2 % of residents subscribed to at least one major platform (Netflix, Disney +, Max, Prime Video, Apple TV) in early 2025
This shows that streaming has become a mainstream part of Portuguese households’ media consumption.
IPTV
While detailed independent data on IPTV (in its pure form) in Portugal is thinner, several market guides note rapid growth and strong infrastructure support for IPTV. For example, a Portuguese guide states that as of 2025 the IPTV market is “exponential growth” with fibre coverage reaching ~89 % of households and more than 2.8 million households subscribing to some form of IPTV service.
Thus IPTV is also a major player.
Traditional TV Providers
Traditional pay‑TV (cable/satellite/terrestrial) is still significant in Portugal, especially given past high penetration and bundled offerings via major operators like MEO, NOS and Vodafone Portugal.
However, the growth of streaming and IPTV is beginning to challenge the dominance of those models.
Key Differences Between Streaming Services and IPTV
Delivery & Infrastructure
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Streaming services: Content is delivered via the internet, often from global data‑centres, using on‑demand distribution. Users typically access via an app on Smart TVs, mobiles, tablets or PCs. The content may be live, but often focuses on on‑demand libraries (movies, series).
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IPTV: While also delivered via broadband/internet, IPTV emphasises live channel line‑ups (traditional TV channels) plus on‑demand, often requires a dedicated app or device, may integrate with multi‑device simultaneous streams, and is often bundled by telecom operators. It may require the user to have a good home‑internet connection and possibly set‑top box (or streaming box) depending on the provider.
In Portugal, the growth of fibre and broadband means IPTV is increasingly viable.