IPTV Features

What Is an EPG and How to Use It With Your IPTV Service

  • EPG
  • Setup
  • IPTV

An EPG is the TV guide for your IPTV service. Without it, IPTV is just a numbered list of channels. With it, you see show names, descriptions, schedules, and can plan your viewing just like with cable.

What EPG stands for

EPG stands for Electronic Programme Guide. It is the on-screen guide that shows what is currently airing and what comes next on every channel — the digital equivalent of the printed TV schedule in a newspaper.

Why EPG matters for IPTV users

  • See show names and descriptions without memorizing channel numbers
  • Plan your viewing schedule up to 7 days ahead
  • Set reminders for upcoming programs
  • Access catch-up / TV archive (watch shows that already aired)
  • Browse by genre or time slot

How EPG data is delivered

Your IPTV provider supplies an EPG URL in XMLTV format. You enter this URL once in your IPTV app settings and it updates automatically, typically every 24 hours. TiviLeaf provides a full 7-day EPG URL with your subscription credentials.

Setting up EPG in TiviMate

  1. Open TiviMate and go to Settings
  2. Select Playlists → tap your playlist
  3. Select EPG → Add EPG source
  4. Paste your TiviLeaf EPG URL
  5. Tap Update EPG — data loads within a few minutes

Setting up EPG in IPTV Smarters

  1. Go to Settings → EPG Settings
  2. Enter your EPG URL in the provided field
  3. Save and return to the channel list — guide data appears automatically

How far ahead does EPG show?

Most providers offer 7-day EPG data. TiviLeaf includes a full 7-day guide for all supported channels. Some niche or regional channels may have partial EPG coverage — this is normal and affects all IPTV providers equally.

Frequently asked questions

Why are some channels missing EPG data?

EPG data is only available for channels whose broadcasters publish schedule information in XMLTV format. Niche, international, or very small regional channels sometimes do not provide this data.

Does EPG slow down the app?

A small amount. EPG data files can be 20–50 MB. Most apps load EPG in the background so it does not affect your viewing. If the app feels slow, try setting EPG to update overnight instead of on launch.