What is IPTV?
You may or may not have heard of IPTV but you’ll almost certainly have seen it and even been using it yourself, and you’ll be using it a lot more in the future! IPTV is rapidly growing and, in turn, completely changing the way we watch content on our televisions.
So what does IPTV stand for, what does it mean, and where is it used?
IPTV Explained
IPTV stands for Internet Protocol Television. What this means is that instead of programming through cable or satellite, where channel broadcasters send out signals which are received by your screen either through an aerial or via cable, the content is sent through your internet connection. To put this more simply – IPTV is the technical term for streaming video content via the Internet to your TV.
Services such as Netflix and Amazon Prime Video are examples of IPTV streaming services that you probably heard of and may already use. Smart TVs are compatible with some IPTV services by default, but you can also use a set top box or plug-in like a Chromecast, Firestick or Apple TV which connect to the Internet to access these services.
Types of IPTV
Video On-Demand (VOD)
Video on-demand is the most popular form of IPTV, and is the streaming of video content through the Internet whenever you want to watch it. Examples of video on-demand services include Netflix, Amazon Prime Video and YouTube.
Time-Shifted Media
As with video on-demand, time-shifted media is video content you can stream online, but with a time limit on its availability. Many broadcasters have a ‘catch up’ service online such as BBC’s iPlayer or Channel 4’s All 4. When a program has aired and been added to the catch up service, it’s usually only available for a week or so, and this is an example of time-shifted IPTV.
Live IPTV
Like with cable or satellite TV, you can also stream live content through IPTV, such as sports and other live-streamed events. Lots of services provide live sports streaming, such as BT and Sky, but also at events, the game/sports/show is streamed in real-time onto screens in and around the stadium/arena.
Tripleplay TripleTV
Our technical partner Tripleplay provide an IPTV solution that can distribute content across an IP network to digital signage screens, TVs, tablets, mobiles and PCs all in full 4K. Designed for use on enterprise quality networks, the Tripleplay IPTV solution has unrivalled flexibility and scalability, with added security and encryption through integration into LDAP, SAML, Active Directory and by use of SecureMedia and other encryption standards.
Our IPTV Solutions
We’re proud to partner with Tripleplay for our IPTV service. Tripleplay offers Digital Signage, IPTV and Video On Demand under one platform making it possible to deliver any content, to any screen, on any network. Ranging from a single screen player to full network solutions with WAN & LAN connectivity, Clear VC and Tripleplay can design and implement a solution to meet your needs. Get in touch for a demonstration or to find out more on 0800 368 7358.