Why Offline Downloads Are a Game-Changer
Streaming is convenient, but it falls apart the moment your internet connection does. Crave's offline download feature lets you save movies and episodes directly to your device, so you can watch without Wi-Fi — on a plane, during a commute, or anywhere with spotty coverage. Here's everything you need to know.
Which Plans Support Downloads?
Offline downloads are available on Standard and Total plans only. If you're on the Basic plan and want to download content, you'll need to upgrade your subscription first.
Which Devices Support Offline Downloads?
- iOS (iPhone and iPad) — via the Crave app on the App Store
- Android — via the Crave app on Google Play
Note: Downloads are not currently available on smart TVs, computers, or streaming sticks. They're exclusively a mobile feature.
How to Download a Title on iOS or Android
- Open the Crave app on your phone or tablet and make sure you're signed in.
- Browse to the movie or TV show you want to download.
- On the title's detail page, tap the Download icon (a downward arrow) next to the episode or movie.
- For TV series, you can download individual episodes or, in some cases, an entire season at once.
- The download will begin in the background. You can monitor progress in the Downloads section of the app.
How to Find and Watch Downloaded Content
- Open the Crave app and tap the Profile icon (bottom right on iOS, or menu on Android).
- Select Downloads.
- Tap any downloaded title to begin watching — no internet required.
Download Limits and Expiry
There are a few important rules to keep in mind:
- Download limit: Crave limits the number of titles you can have downloaded at one time. If you hit the limit, delete older downloads to make room.
- Expiry period: Downloaded content does not stay on your device forever. Downloads typically expire after 30 days from the download date, or within 48 hours of starting playback — whichever comes first.
- License renewal: To reset expiry timers, open the app while connected to the internet at least once every 30 days. This refreshes your download licenses.
Maximizing Storage on Your Device
Downloaded video files can take up significant storage space. Here are some tips to manage it effectively:
- In the Crave app settings, look for a Download Quality option. Choosing "Standard" instead of "High" significantly reduces file size.
- Regularly delete watched downloads from the Downloads section.
- On Android, check if your device supports downloading to an SD card — some Android devices allow this to save internal storage.
Troubleshooting Download Issues
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Download button is greyed out | Check your plan — Basic users cannot download. Some licensed titles may also be restricted. |
| Download stuck at 0% | Check your internet connection. Pause and resume the download. |
| Downloaded content won't play | The license may have expired. Reconnect to the internet and try again. |
| Not enough storage | Delete old downloads or other apps to free up device space. |
Can You Download Every Title on Crave?
Not every title on Crave is available for download. Licensing restrictions mean that some content — particularly live TV, certain movies, and some third-party licensed shows — cannot be downloaded. A download icon will appear on any title that supports offline viewing.