Toda TV Box é pirata? Entenda a diferença ente IPTV, sticks, TV Box e ‘gatonet’ e veja como saber se a sua é legalizada - Estadão

TV Box, Sticks, and Set-top Boxes

The article clarifies the distinctions between TV Boxes, sticks (like Chromecast), and set-top boxes (like Apple TV). All provide internet access and streaming capabilities, but their legality hinges on content sourcing.

IPTV Explained

IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) technology streams TV channels and audiovisual content online. Examples of legal IPTV services include Claro TV+, Vivo Play App, and DirecTV Go (subscription-based), as well as free options like Plex TV, Samsung TV Plus, and PlutoTV. Both TV Boxes and sticks use IPTV, but legality depends on content source.

Legal vs. Illegal TV Boxes

The key difference lies in Anatel (Brazilian telecommunications agency) homologation and content access:

• Legal TV Boxes: Anatel-approved devices (e.g., Chromecast, Apple TV, Fire TV Stick) providing access to legally subscribed streaming services.
• Illegal TV Boxes ('Gatonet'): Unapproved devices offering illegal access to pay-TV channels and streaming content, violating copyright laws and potentially containing malware.

Identifying Illegal TV Boxes

Check for a genuine Anatel homologation seal, verifiable on their website. Beware of advertisements promising unrestricted access to numerous channels without subscriptions, as these often involve illegal and potentially harmful devices.