IPTV in one sentence
IPTV, short for Internet Protocol Television, delivers live TV channels and on-demand video over an internet connection instead of a cable line, a satellite dish or an aerial. You watch it through an app, usually called a player, on a smart TV, a streaming stick, a phone, a tablet or a computer.
An IPTV subscription such as Platinum IPTV gives you the login details for the channels and the on-demand library. The player is the software that organises everything into channel lists, a TV guide and film and series menus.
How IPTV works
When you subscribe, the provider issues a login, usually a server address with a username and password, or a playlist link. You enter it once in your player. The player then downloads the channel list and, where guide data exists, an electronic programme guide (EPG) showing what is on now and next.
Choosing a channel opens a live stream over your broadband connection. On-demand films and series work like a library: you pick a title and play it when you like. Some channels also offer catch-up, which lets you go back and watch programmes that have already aired.
IPTV compared with cable, satellite and streaming apps
- Cable and satellite need dedicated equipment and wiring or a dish, and packages are often tied to a region and a long contract.
- Streaming apps are usually separate subscriptions for each service and are mostly on demand, with limited live channels.
- An IPTV subscription brings live channels and an on-demand library together under one login, which you use in the player of your choice on the devices you already own.
What you need to watch IPTV
- A stable broadband connection. Stability matters more than a headline speed, and 4K needs considerably more bandwidth than HD.
- A compatible device, such as a Fire TV, Android TV or Google TV device, a smart TV, an Apple or Android phone or tablet, or a computer.
- A player app that supports Xtream Codes logins or M3U playlists. Players are made by third-party developers and some charge for a licence.
- A subscription that includes the number of screens you want to watch at the same time.
Live TV, on demand, EPG and catch-up explained
- Live TV: channels broadcasting in real time, just like a traditional TV channel.
- On demand (VOD): films and series you start whenever you choose.
- EPG: the electronic programme guide, a grid showing what is on each channel.
- Catch-up: the option to watch recently aired programmes on supported channels.
- Connections: the number of streams that can play at the same time on one subscription.
Is IPTV legal?
IPTV is simply a way of delivering television over the internet, and many broadcasters and TV operators use it. What matters is the content you watch and the rules where you live. Only watch content you are permitted to view in your country, and follow any local TV licensing requirements.
Where Platinum IPTV fits in
Platinum IPTV is a prepaid IPTV subscription with 22,000+ live TV channels and 100,000+ movies and series titles combined. You choose a term from 1 to 24 months and 1 to 5 simultaneous screens, and pay the full total once at the IPTV Services checkout.
Not sure yet? Request a free 24-hour trial to test your own device and player, or compare the plans for your household.