Watch AFL is a streaming service available outside of Australia, so buffering may occur from time to time due to a range of factors. This generally normalises within 5 minutes.
Try following the steps below to fix your buffering:
Check your device
Before testing anything, make sure you have a device that is compatible with Watch AFL. You can check out our full list of compatible devices here. Make sure you're running an updated version of your compatible device. Older versions may be causing playback issues including buffering.
Change the quality of your stream
Our video players utilise adaptive streaming technology, meaning our content network will deliver you the best possible resolution based on your internet connection.
You also have the ability to manually change the quality of your stream. This is a great solution if you're travelling overseas and are on the go. Choose a lower bitrate within the means of your internet connection and this will reduce your playback issues. You can find out how to change the quality of your stream here.
Note: This feature is not available on mobile apps or on Safari web browsers.
Stabilise your stream
If you're experiencing buffering or finding your stream is slow to load, try pausing the stream and letting it load for 30 seconds before pressing play.
Refresh stream
This solution is a quick and easy fix, especially on web browsers. Refreshing your stream every few hours can help reduce buffering.
If you're using a mobile app, try closing the app and re-opening it for a similar resolution.
Check your network
Check whether your Wi-Fi modem is within 5 metres of your device. If you are too far from your modem, or there is something in between your modem and device, you may experience playback issues.
You can also run an internet speed test to determine what your internet speed is. We recommend a speed of at least 7.5Mbps for a seamless streaming experience.
It's important to remember, if you're at a hostel/hotel/public venue with lots of people sharing the same network, you may still experience playback issues with an internet speed of 7.5Mbps. It's likely that lots of devices are competing for bandwidth in these instances which can affect your streaming quality.
Trying changing your internet connection
If you're connected to a mobile network, try changing between 3G, 4G and 5G, connect your modem via hard cable (ethernet cable) or connecting to a nearby Wi-Fi.
If you're connected via Wi-Fi, try connecting to your modem via a hard cable or a mobile network to see if this delivers a faster connection.
Connecting via a hard cable often delivers a stronger signal and is more consistent over a long period of time - perfect for a game of AFL.
Reset your modem
It might be time to reset your modem or router. Switch your modem or router off for 30 seconds - 1 minute before turning back on again.
Old modems or routers can also lead to buffering.
Contact Watch AFL Customer Care
If the above steps haven't worked, reach out to the Watch AFL Customer Care Team who will try to diagnose what's causing your buffering/playback issues. Try to provide the team with as much information as possible, so have your device information, UDID, internet connection and any other useful information ready.
