cTiVo
cTiVo is a macOS utility for downloading shows from TiVo DVRs and converting them for playback on Macs, phones, tablets, and other devices.
What is cTiVo?
cTiVo is a native Mac utility that helps TiVo owners download recorded shows from their DVRs and convert them into formats that work well on other devices. It is designed for people who want to archive recordings, watch them away from the TiVo, or automate transfers for regular shows. The app can discover compatible TiVo devices on your network, list available recordings, and handle downloading, decrypting, and converting in one workflow. It also supports subscriptions so recurring shows can be transferred automatically, reducing manual steps for everyday use. For users who want more control, cTiVo includes format options and tools related to commercial handling and device-ready exports. cTiVo is published by Hugh Mackworth and is focused on TiVo-to-macOS media management rather than general video downloading.
Key features
- Download recorded shows from compatible TiVo DVRs to your Mac
- Convert recordings into formats for phones, tablets, and other playback devices
- Set up subscriptions to transfer recurring shows automatically
- Browse available recordings discovered from TiVo devices on your network
- Export media with configurable format and processing options
- Use remote-control features for supported TiVo models
Review app leftovers with diCleaner
Inspect caches, support files, containers, and login items before cleaning.
Safety overview
Status: Mostly safe
cTiVo is intended to connect to TiVo devices on your local network and work with your recordings, so network access and access to downloaded media files are normal for its purpose. If you use automatic downloads or exports, the app may create and manage larger video files that can take noticeable disk space. Removing it will stop TiVo downloads, conversions, subscriptions, and related remote-control features, but it does not remove your TiVo recordings from the DVR unless you intentionally use actions that manage shows on the device.
Recommendation: Keep cTiVo if you actively download or convert shows from a TiVo on your Mac. If you no longer use TiVo transfers or automated subscriptions, you can remove it; just check whether you want to keep any downloaded recordings or custom export settings first.
Common paths
/Applications/cTiVo.app
Share your experience
Be the first to share your experience.