About

Molotov history, coverage, features

Molotov TV is a French over-the-top (OTT) streaming service launched in 2016. It provides access to live and on-demand television channels through the internet, and operates on a freemium model, offering a free tier with access to a limited number of channels alongside paid subscription packages that expand content offerings and add features such as cloud recording, extended replay availability, and premium thematic bundles. In 2021, Molotov was acquired by the American streaming company FuboTV as part of its international expansion strategy.

Molotov allows users to watch live television and also to restart a program from the beginning, even after it has already started. Interrupted programs can be resumed later on the same device or on another device linked to the same account. Replay services are supported for many channels, subject to broadcasting rights, with most programs remaining available for seven days after initial broadcast and some extending to longer periods depending on agreements with content providers.

The Molotov service supports playback in 4K UHD quality on selected channels, including TF1 4K, France 2 UHD, M6 4K, and Luxe TV 4K, though availability depends on subscription tier, device compatibility, network quality and network partnerships, which are subject to change. Stable high-bandwidth connections such as fiber, VDSL, or cable are generally required for reliable playback on Molotov, particular on computers. 4K content on Molotov can also be streamed via 4G or 5G mobile networks, though it consumes large amounts of data and requires a stable signal.

Molotov is accessible on a broad range of devices, including computers running Windows, macOS, or Linux, smart televisions from major manufacturers, mobile devices on Android and iOS, and streaming hardware such as Apple TV, Amazon Fire Stick, Chromecast, Nvidia Shield, and Xiaomi Mi Box. The platform is primarily available in France, but portability of paid subscriptions is possible within the European Union as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway under EU regulations. The use of VPNs to bypass territorial restrictions is prohibited under Molotov's terms of service.

Free Molotov users are provided with a limited selection of live and replay channels, while subscribers get access to additional content, extended replay windows, higher resolution streams, and premium packages covering cinema, series, sports, and thematic programming.