In the rapidly evolving digital landscape of 2023, selecting the best IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) service can be a daunting task, given the plethora of options available. Read more about IPTV Reviews here. IPTV has revolutionized the way we consume television content, offering a more flexible and personalized viewing experience compared to traditional broadcasting methods. However, not all IPTV services are created equal, and choosing the right one requires a careful evaluation of several key criteria.
First and foremost, content variety and quality are critical factors to consider when selecting an IPTV service. A top-tier service should offer a diverse range of channels and on-demand content, spanning movies, TV shows, sports, news, and international programming. Additionally, the quality of the content, including resolution options such as HD and 4K, can significantly enhance the viewing experience. The best IPTV services will provide a robust catalog that caters to a wide array of preferences and ensures high-quality streaming.
Another important criterion is reliability and performance. A reliable IPTV service should offer minimal buffering and downtime, ensuring that users can enjoy uninterrupted streaming. This aspect is heavily influenced by the service's server infrastructure and bandwidth capacity. Furthermore, a user-friendly interface and seamless navigation contribute to a positive user experience. The best IPTV services will prioritize performance and intuitiveness, making it easy for users to find and access their desired content.
Compatibility and device support are also crucial when selecting an IPTV service. The ideal service should be compatible with a range of devices, including smart TVs, streaming boxes, smartphones, tablets, and computers. This flexibility allows users to enjoy content on their preferred devices, enhancing convenience and accessibility. Additionally, multi-device support and the ability to stream on multiple devices simultaneously are valuable features that many users seek.
Customer support and service transparency are often overlooked but are essential components of a superior IPTV service. Prompt and effective customer support can resolve issues quickly and maintain user satisfaction. Moreover, service transparency, including clear pricing structures and no hidden fees, builds trust and ensures a positive relationship between the provider and the user. The best IPTV services will offer comprehensive support and maintain open communication regarding service terms and conditions.
Lastly, security and privacy should not be underestimated when choosing an IPTV service. With the increasing prevalence of cyber threats, a service that prioritizes user data protection and employs robust security measures is indispensable. Users should look for providers that offer secure connections and adhere to privacy regulations, ensuring that their personal information remains safeguarded.
In conclusion, selecting the best IPTV service in 2023 involves a careful consideration of content variety and quality, reliability and performance, compatibility and device support, customer service, and security. By prioritizing these criteria, users can make an informed decision that aligns with their viewing preferences and technological requirements, ultimately enhancing their digital entertainment experience.
In recent years, the way we consume television content has drastically evolved, with Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) emerging as a popular alternative to traditional cable and satellite services. As we navigate through 2023, the demand for IPTV services continues to soar, driven by the promise of flexibility, vast content libraries, and often, more competitive pricing. In this essay, we will explore some of the top IPTV services for 2023, highlighting the features that make them stand out in a crowded market.
One of the leading IPTV services this year is Hulu + Live TV. Known for its robust combination of live TV streaming and a comprehensive on-demand library, Hulu + Live TV offers a balanced package for viewers who crave both live broadcasts and binge-worthy series. Subscribers can enjoy access to major network channels, sports, news, and entertainment, alongside Hulu's original content. The service's user-friendly interface and cloud DVR capabilities make it a favorite among cord-cutters looking for an experience akin to traditional cable.
Another standout in the IPTV realm is YouTube TV. This service has gained traction for its seamless integration with Google's ecosystem and its extensive channel lineup, which includes more than 85 networks. YouTube TV's unlimited DVR storage is a significant draw, allowing users to store recordings for up to nine months. Additionally, its ability to support multiple users and devices concurrently makes it an excellent choice for families or shared households.
Sling TV also continues to be a top contender, particularly for those seeking affordability and flexibility. With its à la carte channel selection, Sling TV allows users to customize their packages according to their preferences and budget. This service is particularly appealing to viewers interested in niche or international channels that may not be available through other providers. Sling TV's cost-effective approach and customizable options make it a practical choice for a diverse range of users.
Philo stands out as an IPTV service that caters to viewers who prioritize entertainment and lifestyle programming over sports and news. By focusing on popular channels like AMC, Comedy Central, and HGTV, Philo offers a budget-friendly option for those who want to enjoy their favorite shows without paying for sports channels they might not watch. Its simple interface and competitive pricing make it a strong contender in the IPTV landscape.
Lastly, FuboTV is a top choice for sports enthusiasts. With an expansive lineup of sports channels, including ESPN, Fox Sports, and NBCSports, FuboTV delivers an unparalleled viewing experience for fans eager to catch live games and events. The service also offers a range of entertainment and news channels, ensuring that subscribers have access to a well-rounded selection of content.
In conclusion, the IPTV market in 2023 offers a diverse array of services, each catering to different viewing preferences and needs. Whether you are a sports fanatic, a binge-watcher of series, or someone seeking a budget-friendly alternative to cable, there is likely an IPTV service that fits your requirements. As technology continues to advance and consumer demands evolve, the landscape of IPTV services will undoubtedly continue to innovate, providing even more options for viewers around the globe.
In the rapidly evolving world of digital entertainment, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) services have emerged as a popular option for viewers seeking diverse and flexible viewing options. As we look towards 2023, choosing the best IPTV service requires a careful consideration of several key features that ensure an optimal viewing experience. These features range from content variety and streaming quality to user interface and device compatibility.
First and foremost, content variety is a critical factor when selecting an IPTV service. A top-tier service should offer a broad range of channels and on-demand content, including movies, TV shows, sports, news, and international programming. This variety ensures that users can access a wide array of entertainment options tailored to their preferences. Additionally, it is advantageous if the service provides access to exclusive content that sets it apart from competitors.
Streaming quality is another vital aspect to consider. Consumers in 2023 expect high-definition or even 4K streaming capabilities to fully enjoy their viewing experience. The best IPTV services should offer consistent and reliable streaming with minimal buffering or lag, even during peak usage times. A service that provides adaptive streaming technology, which adjusts video quality based on internet speed, can significantly enhance user satisfaction.
The user interface of an IPTV service plays a crucial role in its overall appeal. A clean, intuitive interface that is easy to navigate can greatly enhance the user experience. Features such as personalized recommendations, advanced search options, and user-friendly menus contribute to a seamless interaction with the service. Additionally, an interface that allows for customization, such as creating watchlists or setting reminders, adds further value for users.
Device compatibility is another important feature to consider. A superior IPTV service should be accessible across a wide range of devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. This flexibility allows users to enjoy their favorite content anytime and anywhere, adapting to their lifestyle and viewing habits. Moreover, a service that supports multiple simultaneous streams can be particularly beneficial for households with multiple users.
Customer support and reliability are also crucial factors in choosing an IPTV service. Responsive customer support can make a significant difference, especially when technical issues arise. Users should look for services that offer 24/7 support through various channels, such as live chat, email, or phone. Furthermore, a reliable service with minimal downtime ensures uninterrupted viewing, which is essential for maintaining customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, selecting the best IPTV service in 2023 involves a careful evaluation of several features that contribute to a superior viewing experience. Content variety, streaming quality, user interface, device compatibility, and customer support are all critical factors to consider. By prioritizing these features, users can ensure that their chosen IPTV service meets their entertainment needs and preferences, providing a seamless and enjoyable viewing experience.
In the ever-evolving landscape of digital entertainment, Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) has emerged as a popular choice for consumers seeking a diverse range of viewing options. As 2023 unfolds, the demand for top-notch IPTV services continues to grow, prompting potential subscribers to carefully compare pricing plans. This essay explores the intricacies of pricing plans among the best IPTV services available this year, highlighting the factors that consumers should consider when making their selection.
The allure of IPTV services lies in their ability to offer a wide array of channels and on-demand content, often at a fraction of the cost of traditional cable or satellite subscriptions. However, not all IPTV services are created equal, and pricing plans can vary significantly based on factors such as the number of channels, the inclusion of premium content, and the quality of streaming.
One of the first considerations when comparing IPTV pricing plans is the channel lineup. Many top-tier IPTV services offer tiered plans that allow subscribers to choose from basic, standard, or premium packages. Basic packages typically include a selection of popular channels, while standard and premium packages offer more extensive options, including international channels and exclusive content. Consumers must assess their own viewing preferences to determine which package best suits their needs, balancing cost against the breadth of available content.
Another critical factor in comparing IPTV pricing plans is the quality of service. High-definition (HD) and 4K streaming options are increasingly important to viewers who demand crisp, clear visuals. Some services may charge a premium for 4K streaming, while others include it as part of their standard offerings. Additionally, the reliability of the streaming service is paramount; no one wants to experience frequent buffering or downtime, especially during live events. Reviews and user testimonials can provide valuable insights into the quality and reliability of a service.
The inclusion of additional features can also influence the cost of IPTV services. For example, some providers offer cloud DVR capabilities, allowing users to record live TV and watch it later at their convenience. Others may provide access to an extensive library of on-demand movies and TV shows, or offer multi-device streaming options so that multiple household members can watch different content simultaneously. These added features can be attractive to consumers, but they often come at an extra cost.
Lastly, potential subscribers should consider the flexibility of IPTV pricing plans. Many services offer monthly subscriptions with no long-term commitment, which can be appealing to those who prefer not to be locked into a contract. However, some providers may offer discounts for committing to a longer-term plan, which can be an attractive option for those who are satisfied with the service and wish to save money in the long run.
In conclusion, the comparison of pricing plans for the best IPTV services in 2023 requires careful consideration of several factors, including channel selection, streaming quality, additional features, and subscription flexibility. By evaluating these elements, consumers can make informed decisions that align with their viewing habits and budgetary constraints. As the IPTV market continues to expand, staying informed about the latest offerings and promotions will ensure that viewers can enjoy the best possible entertainment experience.
In the rapidly evolving landscape of digital entertainment, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) has emerged as a formidable contender against traditional cable and satellite services. As we step into 2023, the benefits of using IPTV services have become increasingly apparent, making it a popular choice for consumers seeking flexibility, cost-efficiency, and a wide range of entertainment options.
One of the most significant advantages of IPTV services is the unparalleled flexibility they offer. Unlike traditional television services that require cumbersome installations and are bound to specific locations, IPTV allows users to access their favorite content anytime, anywhere, as long as they have an internet connection. This flexibility extends to the devices on which content can be viewed, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and computers. This means that whether you're at home, commuting, or traveling, your entertainment is always within reach.
Cost-efficiency is another compelling benefit of IPTV services. Traditional cable subscriptions often come with hefty monthly fees and hidden costs. In contrast, IPTV services typically offer more affordable pricing models, allowing consumers to pay only for the channels or packages they wish to watch. This a la carte approach can significantly reduce monthly expenses while providing access to high-quality content. Additionally, many IPTV services offer free trials or flexible subscription plans, giving users the freedom to explore their options without a long-term commitment.
The vast array of content available through IPTV services is another key benefit. With IPTV, users can access a global library of channels, including live TV, on-demand movies, series, and even exclusive content that might not be available on traditional platforms. This expansive selection caters to diverse tastes and preferences, ensuring that there is something for everyone. Furthermore, many IPTV services offer advanced features such as catch-up TV, time-shifted viewing, and cloud DVR, enhancing the overall viewing experience and allowing users to watch programs at their convenience.
In addition to these benefits, IPTV services often provide superior picture and sound quality compared to standard cable. With the increasing availability of high-speed internet connections, IPTV can deliver content in high definition and even ultra-high definition formats, providing a more immersive and enjoyable viewing experience. Moreover, IPTV services frequently update their technology and content offerings, ensuring that users have access to the latest advancements in entertainment.
In conclusion, the benefits of using IPTV services in 2023 are clear and compelling. From flexibility and cost-efficiency to an extensive selection of content and superior quality, IPTV presents an attractive alternative to traditional television services. As more consumers seek personalized and convenient entertainment solutions, IPTV is poised to continue its growth and prominence in the digital entertainment landscape. Whether you're a tech-savvy viewer or someone looking to cut down on cable costs, IPTV offers a modern solution tailored to meet the diverse demands of today's audiences.
In an increasingly digital world, IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) services have emerged as a popular alternative to traditional cable and satellite TV. These services offer a variety of channels, on-demand content, and often a more flexible viewing experience. However, despite the potential benefits, there are several drawbacks and limitations associated with the best IPTV services in 2023 that consumers should consider before making the switch.
One of the primary concerns with IPTV services is the dependency on a stable and high-speed internet connection. Unlike traditional TV services that rely on satellite or cable infrastructure, IPTV streams content over the internet. This means that any fluctuations in internet speed or connectivity can significantly impact the viewing experience. Buffering, lag, or interruptions can be frustrating, especially during live broadcasts or high-action content. For users in areas with less reliable internet service, this can be a major limitation.
Another potential drawback of IPTV services is the legal ambiguity surrounding some providers. While many IPTV services operate legitimately, offering content they have the rights to distribute, there are others that may offer unauthorized access to channels and content. This can pose a risk to consumers, who may inadvertently engage in illegal activity by subscribing to such services. Additionally, these less reputable services may not offer the same level of customer support or reliability as legitimate providers, leading to a poor user experience.
Compatibility with devices can also be a limitation for IPTV services. While many providers offer apps for a range of devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, and streaming devices, not all services are universally compatible. This can limit users' ability to access their IPTV subscription across all their devices, potentially requiring additional purchases of compatible hardware or software.
Moreover, the user experience can vary significantly between different IPTV services. The interface, ease of navigation, and availability of features like DVR capabilities or parental controls can differ widely. Some services may not offer the same level of polish or intuitiveness as traditional cable or satellite providers, which can be a barrier for users who are less tech-savvy.
Lastly, the cost of IPTV services, while often lower than traditional TV services, can add up with the inclusion of premium channels or additional features. Some users may find that the total cost of IPTV services, combined with the need for high-speed internet, does not present the savings they initially anticipated.
In conclusion, while IPTV services in 2023 offer a modern and flexible approach to television viewing, they come with potential drawbacks and limitations. Consumers should carefully consider these factors, including internet dependency, legal risks, device compatibility, user experience, and overall cost, to determine whether IPTV is the right choice for their entertainment needs. As with any service, thorough research and consideration of individual circumstances will help ensure a satisfactory viewing experience.
![]() |
This article needs to be updated. The reason given is: Requires reliable non-social media sources.(October 2024)
|
![]() |
This article may need to be rewritten to comply with Wikipedia's quality standards.(July 2024)
|
![]() |
This article may be in need of reorganization to comply with Wikipedia's layout guidelines.(July 2024)
|
![]() |
This article has multiple issues. Please help improve it or discuss these issues on the talk page. (Learn how and when to remove these messages)
|
Internet Protocol television (IPTV), also called TV over broadband,[1][2] is the service delivery of television over Internet Protocol (IP) networks. Usually sold and run by a telecom provider, it consists of broadcast live television that is streamed over the Internet (multicast) — in contrast to delivery through traditional terrestrial, satellite, and cable transmission formats — as well as video on demand services for watching or replaying content (unicast).[3]
IPTV broadcasts started gaining usage during the 2000s alongside the rising use of broadband-based internet connections.[2] It is often provided bundled with internet access services by ISPs to subscribers and runs in a closed network.[4] IPTV normally requires the use of a set-top box, which receives the encoded television content in the MPEG transport stream via IP multicast, and converts the packets to be watched on a TV set or other kind of display.[3] It is distinct from over-the-top (OTT) services, which are based on a direct one-to-one transmission mechanism.
IPTV methods have been standardised by organisations such as ETSI.[5][6] IPTV has found success in some regions: for example in Western Europe in 2015, pay IPTV users overtook pay satellite TV users.[7] IPTV is also used for media delivery around corporate and private networks.[citation needed]
Historically, many different definitions of IPTV have appeared, including elementary streams[clarification needed] over IP networks, MPEG transport streams over IP networks and a number of proprietary systems. One official definition approved by the International Telecommunication Union focus group on IPTV (ITU-T FG IPTV) is:
IPTV is defined as multimedia services such as television/video/audio/text/graphics/data delivered over IP-based networks managed to provide the required level of quality of service and experience, security, interactivity and reliability.[8]
Another definition of IPTV, relating to the telecommunications industry, is the one given by Alliance for Telecommunications Industry Solutions (ATIS) IPTV Exploratory Group in 2005:
IPTV is defined as the secure and reliable delivery to subscribers of entertainment video and related services. These services may include, for example, Live TV, Video On Demand (VOD) and Interactive TV (iTV). These services are delivered across an access agnostic, packet switched network that employs the IP protocol to transport the audio, video and control signals. In contrast to video over the public Internet, with IPTV deployments, network security and performance are tightly managed to ensure a superior entertainment experience, resulting in a compelling business environment for content providers, advertisers and customers alike.[9]
Up until the early 1990s, it was not thought possible that a television programme could be squeezed into the limited telecommunication bandwidth of a copper telephone cable to provide a video-on-demand (VOD) television service of acceptable quality, as the required bandwidth of a digital television signal was around 200 Mbit/s, which was 2,000 times greater than the bandwidth of a speech signal over a copper telephone wire. VOD services were only made possible as a result of two major technological developments: motion-compensated DCT video compression and asymmetric digital subscriber line (ADSL) data transmission.[10] Motion-compensated DCT algorithms for video coding standards include the H.26x formats from 1988 onwards and the MPEG formats from 1991 onwards.[11][12] Motion-compensated DCT video compression significantly reduced the amount of bandwidth required for a television signal, while at the same time ADSL increased the bandwidth of data that could be sent over a copper telephone wire. ADSL increased the bandwidth of a telephone line from around 0.1 Mbit/s to 2 Mbit/s, while DCT compression reduced the required bandwidth of a digital television signal from around 200 Mbit/s down to about 2 Mbit/s. The combination of DCT and ADSL technologies made it possible to practically implement VOD services at around 2 Mbit/s bandwidth in the 1990s.[10]
The term IPTV first appeared in 1995 with the founding of Precept Software by Judith Estrin and Bill Carrico. Precept developed an Internet video product named IP/TV. IP/TV was an Mbone compatible Windows and Unix-based application that transmitted single and multi-source audio and video traffic, ranging from low to DVD quality, using both unicast and IP multicast Real-time Transport Protocol (RTP) and Real time control protocol (RTCP). The software was written primarily by Steve Casner, Karl Auerbach, and Cha Chee Kuan. Precept was acquired by Cisco Systems in 1998.[13] Cisco retains the IP/TV trademark.
Telecommunications company US West (later Qwest) launched an IPTV service called TeleChoice in Phoenix, Arizona in 1998 using VDSL technology, becoming the first company in the United States to provide digital television over telephone lines.[14][15] The service was shut down in 2008.[16]
Internet radio company AudioNet started the first continuous live webcasts with content from WFAA-TV in January 1998 and KCTU-LP on 10 January 1998.[17]
Kingston Communications, a regional telecommunications operator in the UK, launched Kingston Interactive Television (KIT), an IPTV over digital subscriber line (DSL) service in September 1999. The operator added additional VOD service in October 2001 with Yes TV, a VOD content provider. Kingston was one of the first companies in the world to introduce IPTV and IP VOD over ADSL as a commercial service. The service became the reference for various changes to UK Government regulations and policy on IPTV. In 2006, the KIT service was discontinued, subscribers having declined from a peak of 10,000 to 4,000.[18][19]
In 1999, NBTel (now known as Bell Aliant) was the first to commercially deploy Internet protocol television over DSL in Canada[20] using the Alcatel 7350 DSLAM and middleware created by iMagic TV (owned by NBTel's parent company Bruncor[21]). The service was marketed under the brand VibeVision in New Brunswick, and later expanded into Nova Scotia in early 2000[22] after the formation of Aliant. iMagic TV was later sold to Alcatel.[23]
In 2002, Sasktel was the second in Canada to commercially deploy IPTV over DSL, using the Lucent Stinger DSL platform.[24]
In 2005, SureWest Communications was the first North American company to offer high-definition television (HDTV) channels over an IPTV service.[25]
In 2005, Bredbandsbolaget launched its IPTV service as the first service provider in Sweden. As of January 2009, they are not the biggest provider any longer; TeliaSonera, who launched their service later, now has more customers.[26]
In 2007, TPG launched their IPTV service in Australia after a limited beta.[27][28] By 2010, iiNet and Telstra launched IPTV services in conjunction to internet plans.[29]
In 2008, Pakistan Telecommunication Company Limited (PTCL) launched IPTV under the brand name of PTCL Smart TV in Pakistan. This service is available in 150 major cities of the country offering 140 live channels.[citation needed]
In 2010, CenturyLink – after acquiring Embarq (2009) and Qwest (2010) – entered five U.S. markets with an IPTV service called Prism.[30] This was after successful test marketing in Florida. Later in 2010, Bell Canada (a major division, if not the largest division of BCE) announced it would begin offering residential and business/commercial customers in Montreal, Quebec and Toronto, Ontario IPTV over a number of different modalities, including fibre to the home, fibre to the node and DSL. This flavour of IPTV would be packaged with other services and branded as "Bell Fibe," providing Canadian customers with everything from local analogue trunk connectivity (POTS), to DSL and fibre Internet to TV service via IPTV.[31] Bell further announced in the September 13th (2010) press release it would begin deploying fiber optic Ethernet to homes in Montreal and Toronto. Bell has since continued to install fiber optic Ethernet to homes (fibre to the home) across Ontario and Quebec, Bell Canada's two largest customer territories. Bell was very successful with the deployment of the Bell Fibe product offering. Many customers in Ontario and Quebec switched from legacy (coaxial) cable companies to Bell's Fibe product because of Bell's marketing around IPTV and their at-home wireless PVR offering. Bell's wireless PVR would permit customers to place a TV anywhere they wanted - as long as they had a power outlet. Bell Fibe TV commercials would show young families watching TV outside on the couch with large 70+ inch LCDs and their Bell Fibe wireless PVR.[32]
In Brazil, since at least 2012, Vivo has been offering the service Vivo TV Fibra in 200+ cities where it has FTTH coverage (4Q 2020 data) . Since at least 2018, Oi has also been offering IPTV under its FTTH service "Oi Fibra". Also, several regional FTTH providers also offer IPTV along with FTTH internet services.
In 2016, Korean Central Television (KCTV) introduced the set-top box called Manbang, reportedly providing video-on-demand services in North Korea via quasi-internet protocol television (IPTV). Manbang allows viewers to watch five different TV channels in real-time, and find political information regarding the Supreme Leader and Juche ideology, and read articles from state-run news organizations.
The global IPTV market was expected to grow from 28 million subscribers at US$12 billion revenue in 2009 to 83 million and US$38 billion in 2013.[needs update] Europe and Asia are the leading territories in terms of the overall number of subscribers. But in terms of service revenues, Europe and North America generate a larger share of global revenue, due to very low average revenue per user (ARPU) in China and India, the fastest growing (and ultimately, the biggest markets) is Asia.[33]
Services also launched in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Pakistan, Canada, Croatia, Lithuania, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco,[34] North Macedonia, Poland, Mongolia, Romania, Serbia, Slovenia,[35] the Netherlands,[36] Georgia, Greece, Denmark, Finland, Estonia, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary,[37][38] Norway, Sweden, Iceland, Latvia, Turkey, Colombia, Chile and Uzbekistan.[39] The United Kingdom launched IPTV early and after a slow initial growth, in February 2009 BT announced that it had reached 398,000 subscribers to its BT Vision service.[40] A free IPTV service by the public broadcasters was launched in 2024 named Freely. Claro has launched their own IPTV service called "Claro TV". This service is available in several countries in which they operate, such as Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua. IPTV is just beginning to grow in Central and Eastern Europe and Latin America, and now it is growing in South Asian countries such as Sri Lanka, Nepal Pakistan and India.[41] but significant plans exist in countries such as Russia. Kazakhstan introduced[42] its own IPTV services by the national provider Kazakhtelecom JSC[43] and content integrator Alacast under the "iD TV" brand in two major cities Astana and Almaty in 2009 and is about to go nationwide starting 2010.[needs update] Australian ISP iiNet launched Australia's first IPTV with Fetch TV.[44]
In India, IPTV was launched by MTNL, BSNL and Jio in New Delhi, Mumbai and Punjab. APSFL is another IPTV provider in the state of Andhra Pradesh.
In Nepal, IPTV was first launched by NEW IT VENTURE CORPORATION called Net TV Nepal, the service can be accessed through its app, web app and Set-top boxes provided by local ISPs, another IPTV was started by Nepal Telecom called WOW Time in 2016 which can be accessed through its app.
In Sri Lanka, IPTV was launched by Sri Lanka Telecom (operated by SLT VisionCom) in 2008, under the brand name of PEO TV. This service is available throughout the country. Dialog TV has been available through the service since 2018.
In Pakistan, IPTV was launched by PTCL in 2008, under the brand name of PTCL Smart TV. This service is available in 150 major cities of the country.[citation needed]
In the Philippines, PLDT offers Cignal IPTV services as an add-on in certain ADSL and fiber optic plans.[45][46]
In Malaysia, various companies have attempted to launch IPTV services since 2005. Failed PayTV provider MiTV attempted to use an IPTV-over-UHF service but the service failed to take off. HyppTV was supposed to use an IPTV-based system, but not true IPTV as it does not provide a set-top box and requires users to view channels using a computer. True IPTV providers available in the country at the moment are Fine TV and DETV. In Q2 2010, Telekom Malaysia launched IPTV services through their fibre to the home product Unifi in select areas. In April 2010, Astro began testing IPTV services on TIME dotCom Berhad's high-speed fibre to the home optical fibre network. In December 2010, Astro began trials with customers in high-rise condominium buildings around the Mont Kiara area. In April 2011, Astro commercially launched its IPTV services under the tag line "The One and Only Line You'll Ever Need", a triple play offering in conjunction with TIME dotCom Berhad that provides all the Astro programming via IPTV, together with voice telephone services and broadband Internet access all through the same fibre optic connection into the customer's home. In 2020, Astro launched "Plug-and-Play", which uses Unicast technology for streaming TV.
In Turkey, TTNET launched IPTV services under the name IPtivibu in 2010. It was available in pilot areas in the cities of Istanbul, İzmir and Ankara. As of 2011, IPTV service is launched as a large-scale commercial service and widely available across the country under the trademark "Tivibu EV".[47][48] Superonline plans to provide IPTV under the different name "WebTV" in 2011. Türk Telekom started building the fibre optic substructure for IPTV in late 2007.
IPTV has been widely used since around 2002[citation needed] to distribute television and audio-visual (AV) media around businesses and commercial sites, whether as live TV channels or Video on Demand (VOD). Examples of types of commercial users include airports, schools, offices, hotels, and sports stadiums, to name just a few.
Hotel television systems are the in-suite television content presented in hotel rooms, other hotel environments and in the hospitality industry for in-room entertainment, as well as hospitals, assisted living, senior care and nursing homes. These services may be free for the guest or paid, depending on the service and the individual hotel's or hotel chain's policy. Generally, these services are controlled by using the remote control.
An IPTV head-end is a place where live TV channels and AV sources are encoded, encrypted, and delivered as IP multicast streams. Meanwhile, a video on demand (VOD) platform stores on-demand video assets and serves them as IP unicast streams when a user requests them. Sometimes, the VOD platform is located within the IPTV head-end. An interactive portal allows users to navigate within the different IPTV services, such as the VOD catalogue. A delivery network is a packet-switched network that carries IP packets, including unicast and multicast streams. Endpoints refer to user equipment that can request, decode, and deliver IPTV streams for display to the user. This can include computers, mobile devices, and set-top boxes. At a residential IPTV user's home, the home TV gateway is the piece of equipment that terminates the access link from the delivery network. Lastly, the user set-top box is the piece of endpoint equipment that decodes and decrypts TV and VOD streams for display on the TV screen.
Depending on the network architecture of the service provider, there are two main types of video server architecture that can be considered for IPTV deployment: centralised and distributed.
The centralised architecture model is a relatively simple and easy-to-manage solution. Because all media content is stored in centralised servers, it does not require a comprehensive content distribution system. Centralised architecture is generally good for a network that provides relatively small VOD service deployment, has adequate core and edge bandwidth or has an efficient content delivery network (CDN).
A distributed architecture has bandwidth usage advantages and inherent system management features that are essential for managing a larger server network. Distributed architecture requires intelligent and sophisticated content distribution technologies to augment effective delivery of multimedia content over the service provider's network.[49]
In many cases, the residential gateway that provides connectivity with the Internet access network is not located close to the IPTV set-top box. This scenario becomes very common as service providers start to offer service packages with multiple set-top boxes per subscriber.
Networking technologies that take advantage of existing home wiring (such as power lines, phone lines or coaxial cables) or of wireless hardware have become common solutions for this problem, although fragmentation in the wired home networking market has limited somewhat the growth in this market.[50][51]
In December 2008, ITU-T adopted Recommendation G.hn (also known as G.9960), which is a next-generation home networking standard that specifies a common PHY/MAC that can operate over any home wiring (power lines, phone lines or coaxial cables).[52]
Groups such as the Multimedia over Coax Alliance, HomePlug Powerline Alliance, Home Phoneline Networking Alliance, and Quasar Alliance (Plastic Optical Fibre)[53] each advocate their own technologies.
There is a growing standardisation effort on the use of the 3GPP IP Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) as an architecture for supporting IPTV services in telecommunications carrier networks. Both ITU-T and ETSI are working on so-called "IMS-based IPTV" standards (see e.g. ETSI TS 182 027[54]). Carriers will be able to offer both voice and IPTV services over the same core infrastructure and the implementation of services combining conventional TV services with telephony features (e.g. caller ID on the TV screen) will become straightforward.[55]
IPTV supports both live TV as well as stored video-on-demand. Playback requires a device connected to either a fixed or wireless IP network in the form of a standalone personal computer, smartphone, touch screen tablet, game console, connected TV or set-top box. Content is compressed by Video and audio codecs and then encapsulated in MPEG transport stream or Real-time Transport Protocol or other packets. IP multicasting allows for live data to be sent to multiple receivers using a single multicast group address.
![]() |
This section needs to be updated.(December 2020)
|
In standards-based IPTV systems, the primary underlying protocols used are:
Local IPTV, as used by businesses for audio visual AV distribution on their company networks is typically based on a mixture of:
Although IPTV and conventional satellite TV distribution have been seen as complementary technologies, they are likely to be increasingly used together in hybrid IPTV networks. IPTV is largely neutral to the transmission medium, and IP traffic is already routinely carried by satellite for Internet backbone trunking and corporate VSAT networks.[56]
The copper twisted pair cabling that forms the last mile of the telephone and broadband network in many countries is not able to provide a sizeable proportion of the population with an IPTV service that matches even existing terrestrial or satellite digital TV distribution. For a competitive multi-channel TV service, a connection speed of 20 Mbit/s is likely to be required, but unavailable to most potential customers.[57] The increasing popularity of high-definition television increases connection speed requirements or limits IPTV service quality and connection eligibility even further.
However, satellites are capable of delivering in excess of 100 Gbit/s via multi-spot beam technologies, making satellite a clear emerging technology for implementing IPTV networks. Satellite distribution can be included in an IPTV network architecture in several ways. The simplest to implement is an IPTV-direct to home (DTH) architecture, in which hybrid DVB-broadband set-top boxes in subscriber homes integrate satellite and IP reception to give additional bandwidth with return channel capabilities. In such a system, many live TV channels may be multicast via satellite and supplemented with stored video-on-demand transmission via the broadband connection. Arqiva’s Satellite Media Solutions Division suggests "IPTV works best in a hybrid format. For example, you would use broadband to receive some content and satellite to receive other, such as live channels".[58]
![]() |
This section's factual accuracy may be compromised due to out-of-date information.(July 2011)
|
Hybrid IPTV refers to the combination of traditional broadcast TV services and video delivered over either managed IP networks or the public Internet. It is an increasing trend in both the consumer and pay TV markets.[59][60][61]
The growth of Hybrid IPTV is driven by two major factors. Since the emergence of online video aggregation sites, like YouTube and Vimeo in the mid-2000s, traditional pay TV operators have come under increasing pressure to provide their subscribers with a means of viewing Internet-based video on their televisions. At the same time, specialist IP-based operators have looked for ways to offer analogue and digital terrestrial services to their operations, without adding either additional cost or complexity to their transmission operations. Bandwidth is a valuable asset for operators, so many have looked for alternative ways to deliver these new services without investing in additional network infrastructures.
A hybrid set-top allows content from a range of sources, including terrestrial broadcast, satellite, and cable, to be brought together with video delivered over the Internet via an Ethernet connection on the device. This enables television viewers to access a greater variety of content on their TV sets, without the need for a separate box for each service. Hybrid IPTV set-top boxes may also enable users to access a range of advanced interactive services, such as VOD, catch-up TV, as well as Internet applications, including video telephony, surveillance, gaming, shopping, e-government accessed via a television set.
From a pay-TV operator's perspective, a hybrid IPTV set-top box gives them greater long-term flexibility to deploy new services and applications as and when consumers require, most often without the need to upgrade equipment or for a technician to visit and reconfigure or swap out the device. This reduces the cost of launching new services, increases speed to market and limits disruption for consumers.[62]
The Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV (HbbTV) consortium of industry companies the establishment of an open European standard for hybrid set-top boxes for the reception of broadcast and broadband digital TV and multimedia applications with a single user interface.[63] These trends led to the development of Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV set-top boxes that included both a broadcast tuner and an Internet connection – usually via an Ethernet port. The first commercially available hybrid IPTV set-top box was developed by Advanced Digital Broadcast, a developer of digital television hardware and software, in 2005. The platform was developed for Spanish pay TV operator Telefonica,[64] and used as part of its Movistar TV service, launched to subscribers at the end of 2005.
An alternative approach is the IPTV version of the Headend in the Sky cable TV solution. Here, multiple TV channels are distributed via satellite to the ISP or IPTV provider's point of presence (POP) for IP-encapsulated distribution to individual subscribers as required by each subscriber. This can provide a huge selection of channels to subscribers without overburdening incoming Internet to the POP, and enables an IPTV service to be offered to small or remote operators outside the reach of terrestrial high-speed WAN connection. An example is a network combining fibre and satellite distribution via an SES New Skies satellite of 95 channels to Latin America and the Caribbean, operated by IPTV Americas.[65][needs update]
The Internet protocol-based platform offers significant advantages, including the ability to integrate television with other IP-based services like high-speed Internet access and VoIP.
A switched IP network also allows for the delivery of significantly more content and functionality. In a typical TV or satellite network, using broadcast video technology, all the content constantly flows downstream to each customer, and the customer switches the content at the set-top box. The customer can select from as many choices as the telecomms, cable or satellite company can stuff into the pipe flowing into the home. A switched IP network works differently. Content remains in the network, and only the content the customer selects is sent into the customer's home. That frees up bandwidth, and the customer's choice is less restricted by the size of the pipe into the home.
An IP-based platform also allows significant opportunities to make the TV viewing experience more interactive and personalised. The provider may, for example, include an interactive programme guide that allows viewers to search for content by title or actor's name, or a picture-in-picture functionality that allows them to channel surf without leaving the programme they're watching. Viewers may be able to look up a player's stats while watching a sports game or control the camera angle. They also may be able to access photos or music from their PC on their television, use a wireless phone to schedule a recording of their favourite show, or even adjust parental controls so their child can watch a documentary for a school report, while they're away from home.
A feedback channel from the viewer to the provider is required for this interactivity. Terrestrial, satellite, and some cable networks for television do not feature a feedback channel and thus don't allow interactivity. However, interactivity with those networks can be possible by combining TV networks with data networks such as the Internet or a mobile communication network.
IPTV technology is used for video on demand (VOD),[66] which permits a customer to browse an online programme or film catalogue, to watch trailers and to then select a program. The playout of the selected item starts nearly instantaneously on the customer's TV or PC.
Technically, when the customer selects the program, a point-to-point unicast connection is set up between the customer's decoder (set-top box or PC) and the delivering streaming server. The signalling for the trick mode functionality (pause, slow-motion, wind/rewind etc.) may be communicated using, for instance, RTSP.
In an attempt to avoid content piracy, the VOD content is usually encrypted and digital rights management may be applied. A film that is chosen, for example, may be playable for 24 hours following payment, after which time it becomes unavailable.
Another advantage is the opportunity for integration and convergence. This opportunity is amplified when using IMS-based solutions.[67] Converged services implies interaction of existing services in a seamless manner to create new value-added services. One example is on-screen caller ID, getting caller ID on a TV, and the ability to handle the call (send it to voice mail, etc.). IP-based services help to provide consumers anytime and anywhere access to content over their televisions, PCs, and mobile device, and to integrate services and content to tie them together. Within businesses and institutions, IPTV eliminates the need to run a parallel infrastructure to deliver live and stored video services.
IPTV is sensitive to packet loss and delays. An IPTV channel has a minimum bandwidth requirement. Some systems are able to adapt to lower available bandwidth by reducing picture quality.
Although a few countries have very high-speed broadband-enabled populations,[a] in other countries legacy networks struggle to provide 3–5 Mbit/s[68][needs update] and so simultaneous use of IPTV, VOIP and Internet access may not be viable. The last-mile delivery for IPTV usually has a bandwidth restriction that only allows a small number of simultaneous TV channel streams – typically from one to three – to be delivered.[69]
The network delay inherent in the use of satellite Internet access is often held up as a reason why satellites cannot be successfully used for IPTV. In practice, however, delay is not an important factor for IPTV, since it is a service that does not require real-time transmission, as is the case with telephony or videoconferencing services. It is the delay of response to requests to change channel, display an EPG, etc. that most affects customers’ perceived quality of service.
Existing video transmission systems of both analogue and digital formats already introduce known quantifiable delays. Existing DVB TV channels that simulcast by both terrestrial and satellite transmissions experience the same 0.25-second delay difference between the two services with no detrimental effect, and it goes unnoticed by viewers.
![]() |
This section does not cite any sources.(July 2017)
|
Digital video is a sequence of digital images, called frames, each made up of pixels or picture elements. Three bytes are typically used to represent the colour of the high quality image.
Movies use 24 frames per second, North America television uses approximately 30 frames per second where the Europe television frame rate is 25 frames per second. Each digital video has dimensions width and height; SDTV is 720 × 480 pixels, HDTV uses up to 1920 × 1080 pixels.
For checking the bandwidth requirements, you need to dimension your IPTV service, such as defining number of SD and HD TV channels, number of planned subscribers, VOD and nPVR concurrency. Based on these, you can calculate required bandwidth on each DSL line, in access network and in core IP network.[70]
Due to limitations in bandwidth, an IPTV channel is delivered to the user one at a time. Changing a channel requires requesting the head-end server to provide a different broadcast stream, much like VOD.[b] This could enable the service provider to accurately track each and every programme watched and the duration of watching for each viewer. In conjunction with regulatory differences between IPTV and cable TV, this tracking could pose a threat to privacy according to critics.[71] For IP multicast scenarios, since a particular multicast group (TV channel) needs to be requested before it can be viewed, the same privacy concerns apply.
![]() |
This section needs to be updated.(March 2023)
|
Some major telecoms vendors are active in this space, notably Accenture (Accenture Video Solution), Alcatel-Lucent (sometimes working with Movistar TV), Ericsson (notably since acquiring Tandberg Television), Huawei, NEC, PTCL Smart TV, Sri Lanka Telecom, Thomson, and ZTE, as are some IT houses, led by Microsoft. Miami-based AlphaOTT, Tokyo-based The New Media Group, Malaysian-based Select-TV, Oslo/Norway-based SnapTV, and California-based UTStarcom, Inc. also offer end-to-end networking infrastructure for IPTV-based services, and Hong Kong-based BNS Ltd. provides turnkey open platform IPTV technology solutions. Others include Movistar TV and PCCW.
Google Fiber offers an IPTV service in various US cities which includes up to 1 Gigabit-speed internet and over 290 channels depending on package via the fibre optic network being built out in Kansas City Kansas and Kansas City Missouri.
Many of these IPTV solution vendors participated in the biennial Multiservice Switching Forum Interoperability 2008 (GMI) event which was coordinated by the MultiService Forum (MSF) at five sites worldwide from 20 to 31 October 2008. Test equipment vendors including Netrounds, Codenomicon, Empirix, Ixia, Mu Dynamics, and Spirent joined solution vendors such as the companies listed above in one of the largest IPTV proving grounds ever deployed.
For residential users, IPTV is often provided in conjunction with VOD and may be bundled with Internet services such as Internet access and voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) telecommunications services. Commercial bundling of IPTV, VoIP and Internet access is sometimes referred to in marketing as triple play service. When these three are offered with cellular service, the combined service may be referred to as quadruple play.
Historically, cable TV operators have been regulated differently from telecommunication operators. As IPTV allows TV and VOD to be transmitted over the Internet, new regulatory issues arise.[72] Professor Eli M. Noam highlights in his report "TV or Not TV: Three Screens, One Regulation?" some of the key challenges with sector-specific regulation that is becoming obsolete due to convergence in this field.[73]
cite journal
: Cite journal requires |journal=
(help)cite web
: CS1 maint: numeric names: authors list (link)cite web
: CS1 maint: multiple names: authors list (link)