5

What the 5 streaming app is for

5 is the streaming app from Channel Five. It brings the 5 channel family, along with the Milkshake! children's programmes, into one place, so live viewing and catch-up sit side by side.

The app suits a household where people want different things. Children can watch their own shows while others pick drama, true crime, reality programmes or movies from the same catalogue.

The listing gives the content rating as Parental guidance, which is worth knowing before handing the app to young viewers.

Watching live TV channels on any device

The app streams live TV from 5, 5STAR, 5USA, 5ACTION, 5SELECT and Milkshake!. The listing also mentions extra live channels that it says are not available anywhere else.

The developer says live streaming works on any device. Watching over a mobile network may cost extra in data, a point the listing states directly, so anyone on a limited data plan should check their allowance first.

On-demand boxsets, drama and documentaries

Beyond live channels, the app offers on-demand programmes. The listing highlights boxsets you can watch through, new dramas and documentaries.

It also lists true crime, reality shows, movies and other genres, so the catalogue covers more than one kind of viewing.

Children's programmes from Milkshake!

Milkshake! programmes are part of the app, and the listing names Peppa Pig among the shows included. Younger viewers can find their favorites here without leaving the main app.

Because the listing rates the app Parental guidance, adults may want to look over what is available before children use it on their own.

Recommendations and My List for later viewing

The app recommends shows and movies based on what you watch, so suggestions change as your viewing does. This is the personalised side of the app, and it works without any setup described in the listing.

My List lets you save shows you want to watch later. It is a simple way to hold a programme you missed, or to keep a boxset queued up for the next evening in.