error_code_io_cleartext_not_permitted
ExoPlayer / Media3 Streaming App
Severity: ModerateWhat Does This Error Mean?
This error means the app tried to load a stream using http:// (unencrypted) instead of https:// (secure). Android 9 and newer block unencrypted network traffic by default for security reasons. This is usually a problem with the stream source or the app — not your network.
Affected Models
- CloudStream 3
- Plex Media Player (Android)
- Kodi
- TiviMate
- IPTV Smarters Pro
- VLC for Android
- Any Android app using ExoPlayer or Media3
Common Causes
- The stream URL starts with http:// instead of https://
- An IPTV playlist or M3U file contains old http:// stream links
- The app or plugin was built before Android 9 cleartext rules and has not been updated
- A middleware or proxy is stripping the secure connection and serving plain http://
- The app developer has not enabled cleartext traffic in their Android network configuration
How to Fix It
-
Check the stream URL in the app or your playlist file. Look for whether it starts with http:// or https://.
If it starts with http://, that is the direct cause. The stream needs to be updated to https://.
-
If you use an M3U or IPTV playlist, ask your provider for an updated playlist with https:// stream links.
Many older IPTV providers still use http:// links. A provider that is actively maintained should be able to give you https:// links.
-
Update the app to the latest version from the Play Store or the app source.
Some apps have added settings to allow cleartext in newer versions, or their stream URLs may have been updated.
-
If you manage your own media server (like Plex or Jellyfin), enable HTTPS in the server settings.
Serving your content over HTTPS solves this permanently and also protects your media traffic on public networks.
-
If none of the above works, try a different app. Some apps, like VLC for Android, handle http:// streams more permissively.
VLC and Kodi have different network security configurations that may allow http:// streams your primary app blocks.
When to Call a Professional
This is a technical issue caused by the app or the stream source, not your device. If you control the stream source, update your links from http:// to https://. If you are a regular user, contact the app developer or your IPTV provider — they need to fix their stream URLs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did my streams suddenly stop working after upgrading my Android phone?
Android 9 introduced a security rule that blocks unencrypted http:// traffic. If your old phone was running Android 8 or earlier, those streams worked fine. Now that you are on Android 9 or newer, only https:// streams are allowed by default.
Can I turn off this restriction to make http:// streams work?
Not as a regular user — this is enforced at the app level, not in Android settings. Only the app developer can change this by updating their app. Your best option is to switch to an app that supports http:// streams, or ask your provider for https:// links.
Is http:// streaming actually unsafe?
On your home network it is low risk, but on public Wi-Fi it can expose your stream traffic. Any device on the same Wi-Fi can potentially see what you are streaming over http://. https:// encrypts that traffic, which is why Android now requires it.