Downloading movies on Hulu for offline viewing is surprisingly simple, granting you access to your favorite films even without an internet connection. Hulu’s download feature is available to subscribers of the Hulu (No Ads) plan and the Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV plan. Here’s a comprehensive guide to get you started.
Understanding Hulu’s Download Feature
Hulu offers a convenient download feature, allowing users with specific subscription plans to save select movies and TV shows directly to their mobile devices for offline viewing. This feature is particularly useful for travel, commuting, or situations where internet access is unreliable. However, it’s crucial to understand the limitations and requirements to ensure a smooth downloading experience.
Eligibility and Requirements
Before attempting to download, ensure you meet these prerequisites:
- Subscription Plan: You must be subscribed to either the Hulu (No Ads) or Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV plan. The ad-supported plan does not offer the download option.
- Supported Device: Downloads are only available on mobile devices, specifically iPhones, iPads, and Android phones and tablets. You cannot download on a computer, smart TV, or streaming device.
- Hulu App: You’ll need the latest version of the Hulu app installed on your eligible device.
- Sufficient Storage: Ensure your device has enough storage space available to accommodate the downloaded movie.
- Download Limit: Hulu allows a maximum of 25 downloads across all your devices at any given time.
Step-by-Step Download Process
Follow these simple steps to download a movie on Hulu:
- Open the Hulu App: Launch the Hulu app on your iPhone, iPad, or Android device.
- Find Your Movie: Browse the Hulu library or use the search function to locate the movie you want to download.
- Look for the Download Icon: On the movie’s details page, you’ll see a download icon (usually a downward-pointing arrow into a line). This icon will only appear if the movie is available for download.
- Tap the Download Icon: Tap the download icon to initiate the download process. A progress indicator will appear.
- Monitor the Download: You can check the download progress in the Downloads section of the Hulu app. This section is usually accessible from the bottom navigation bar.
- Offline Viewing: Once the download is complete, the movie will be available for offline viewing in the Downloads section. Tap the movie to start watching.
Managing Your Downloads
Effectively managing your downloads is key to optimizing your Hulu experience.
Viewing and Deleting Downloads
- Accessing Downloads: To access your downloaded movies, navigate to the Downloads section of the Hulu app.
- Deleting Downloads: To remove a downloaded movie, tap the edit icon (often a pencil or three dots) next to the movie title. Select the movie you want to delete and tap the delete icon. This will free up storage space on your device.
Download Expiration
- Expiration Period: Downloaded movies on Hulu have an expiration period. Generally, downloads expire 30 days after downloading or 48 hours after you start watching.
- Renewal: If a downloaded movie is about to expire, you may be able to renew it within the app if the content is still available for download.
Troubleshooting Common Download Issues
Encountering problems during the download process is not uncommon. Here’s how to troubleshoot some frequent issues.
Insufficient Storage Space
- Check Available Storage: Verify that your device has enough free storage space. Go to your device’s settings to check storage usage.
- Delete Unnecessary Files: Remove unnecessary files, apps, photos, or videos to free up space.
Download Errors
- Restart the App: Close and reopen the Hulu app.
- Check Internet Connection: Ensure you have a stable internet connection, even though you’re downloading for offline viewing. A poor connection can sometimes interfere with the download process.
- Update the App: Make sure you have the latest version of the Hulu app installed.
- Reinstall the App: If the problem persists, try uninstalling and reinstalling the Hulu app.
Content Not Available for Download
- Not All Content is Downloadable: Remember that not all movies and TV shows on Hulu are available for download. The availability of downloads is determined by licensing agreements.
- Check Download Icon: If you don’t see the download icon on the movie’s details page, it’s not available for download.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide further clarity:
1. Can I download movies on Hulu with the basic plan?
No, the download feature is exclusively available for Hulu (No Ads) and Hulu (No Ads) + Live TV subscribers.
2. How many devices can I download movies to?
You can download movies to multiple devices associated with your Hulu account, but the total number of downloads allowed across all devices is limited to 25.
3. Can I download movies on my computer?
No, Hulu’s download feature is only supported on mobile devices (iPhones, iPads, and Android phones and tablets).
4. What happens if I start watching a downloaded movie but don’t finish it?
The downloaded movie will expire 48 hours after you begin watching it, regardless of whether you finish watching it.
5. How long do downloaded movies stay on my device?
Generally, downloaded movies expire 30 days after downloading or 48 hours after you start watching, whichever comes first.
6. Can I renew an expired download?
Yes, you may be able to renew an expired download if the content is still available for download on Hulu. The renewal option will typically appear in the Downloads section of the app.
7. What if I don’t see the download icon on a movie’s details page?
If you don’t see the download icon, it means that particular movie is not available for download due to licensing restrictions or other reasons.
8. Does the quality of the downloaded video differ from the streaming quality?
Hulu typically offers downloads in a standard resolution, optimized for mobile devices. The quality may be slightly lower than the highest streaming quality available.
9. Will downloading movies use up my data?
Yes, downloading movies will use your data allowance if you’re connected to a mobile network. It’s recommended to download movies over a Wi-Fi connection to avoid data charges.
10. What do I do if my downloaded movie keeps buffering even when I’m offline?
Downloaded movies should not buffer since they are stored locally on your device. If you experience buffering, try restarting the Hulu app or re-downloading the movie. Also, ensure your device has sufficient resources available (close other apps).
11. Can I share downloaded movies with my family members or friends?
No, downloaded movies are tied to your Hulu account and cannot be shared with others. They can only be viewed on devices logged into your account.
12. What happens to my downloads if I cancel my Hulu (No Ads) subscription?
When you cancel your Hulu (No Ads) subscription, all downloaded movies will be automatically removed from your devices. You will no longer be able to access them.