What Is an EPG? The IPTV TV Guide Explained

EPG stands for Electronic Programme Guide: the TV guide inside your IPTV player. It shows what is on each channel now, what comes next, and what was on earlier.

What the guide shows

• Now and next for every channel.
• Programme details: title, time, description, sometimes episode and season.
• The schedule for the coming days.
• Past programmes on channels with catch-up, which you can replay.

Where the data comes from

Broadcasters publish schedules. Guide services collect them and publish them in a standard format called XMLTV. Your provider combines this data with its channel list. When you log in with Xtream Codes, your player downloads the guide automatically. With an M3U link, you add a separate guide (XMLTV) link.

Why some channels have no guide

• Small, local or international channels may not publish schedules.
• Event and pay-per-view channels only have entries around the event.
• If a channel was renamed, its guide data may take a day to match again.

An empty guide for a few channels is normal. An empty guide for every channel is a problem: see EPG not showing.

The guide and catch-up

Catch-up uses the guide to know when each programme started and ended. You scroll back in the guide and choose a programme. If the guide or your time zone is wrong, catch-up plays the wrong part. See what catch-up is.

Getting the most from the guide

• Use a player with a good grid guide, such as TiviMate, IBO Player or OTT Navigator.
• Filter the guide to your favourites to see what is on across your channels.
• Set the right time zone on your device.
• Let the guide update daily in the player settings.

Frequently asked questions

Does the guide cost extra?

No. It is included with your subscription.

How far ahead does the guide go?

Usually a few days. It depends on the channel's published schedule.

Can I set reminders?

Some players (TiviMate, OTT Navigator) let you set reminders for programmes.