I think that may be only in Ireland.

Redwolf

I'm so excited to find this thread- thank you Redwolf. I only discovered at Christmas that I could get TG4 streaming online after years of whingeing about missing vital rugby games! I love the idea of being able to get it on the TV, but hubby is somewhat resistant as he is sure that some sort of computer/Tv link up will screw things up. I will show him this thread and try to persuade him!

Meanwhile, I was fascinated by NiallBeag's comment about Smart TVs, so I've just had a look online to see what I can find (an entirely separate TV for this sort of thing would probably keep hubby happier, and I haven't checked the prices, so I haven't terrified myself out of the idea yet...). I did happen upon this link, which seems to suggest that the Smart TV and app should allow TG4 to be screened worldwide (I'm in England, by the way):
http://www.digitaltveurope.net/229591/t ... -ipad-app/

This is the paragraph that makes me think it should be accessible from outside Ireland:

“It is important that Irish language content is accessible to audiences worldwide, and our new services ensure TG4 programmes are available around the globe. It also ensures our home audiences can catch up or watch live any time, any place, across all major devices,” said TG4 head of output Lís Ní Dhálaigh.

I need to investigate further, but it sounds very hopeful, and it's such an exciting thought... Thanks to everyone who has put me on the trail

Quick update...

I've just re-read the article and see that the bit I have quoted is talking about the Ipad and may not relate to getting TG4 content on a Smart TV worldwide. Sorry for any misinformation - I was just too excited.

Still, I'm going to have a dig and see if it's possible...

TG4 is available worldwide through the internet, you don't need anything extra. But there are country restrictions on some programs, like the short film Rúbaí, and probably on some sports events too- I'm not sure about that though.

I'd advise you to get the Chromecast, or similiar device, then you can flick whatever is on your computer screen onto the television (I think you need a hdmi port). If you are getting a smart tv make sure adding apps to it is an option. Some come with build-in apps and you can't change them or add new ones.

Thank you very much for the advice. I've just been out having a speculative look at Smart TVs and ended up fairly baffled! As you say, it seems as though you can't be sure what apps you can get from TV to TV, even within one brand... or at least the sales assistants in Currys didn't seem too sure!

I did spot a Chromecast box on my travels, so I've just come back in to fully check out the T&Cs on that, because it does look to be a way to go. I think the TV has the relevant port, but I need to check. Getting TG4 to stream online was a very happy discovery for me, but if I can get the rugby on the TV downstairs I will be overjoyed!

Thanks again for all the help.

Sarah

If your new TV has hdmi ports (which all smart TVs do), it doesn't matter what apps it may or may not come with. The ChromeCast app goes on your computer. You just plug the device into one of the hdmi ports, install the app on your computer, and click on the "cast" icon to cast whatever is on your monitor to the TV.

You can also connect your laptop to your smart TV directly by running an hdmi cable between it and one of the TV's hdmi ports, but I find that awkward.

Redwolf

Our current TV isn't a smart TV, but it is HD, so I need to do a bit of checking out of the ports. I also need to check the router we have, because it looks as though it might not be Chromecast friendly.

However, the good news is that hubby is sounding more Chromecast friendly... (maybe it was the thought of me rushing out to buy a new Smart TV!) so I feel I'm making progress !