An EPG (electronic program guide) is the on-screen TV guide in your IPTV app: it shows what’s on each channel now, what’s coming next and often a description of each program. In IPTV, the guide comes as separate data that your app matches to your channels. With an Xtream Codes login it usually loads automatically; with an M3U playlist you may need to add an EPG link yourself.
What an EPG shows
- The program that is on now and what’s next on each channel.
- A grid view of the coming hours or days.
- Program titles, descriptions and sometimes images or genres.
- Markers for programs you can watch on catch-up, if your provider and app support it.
How the EPG works in IPTV
Most IPTV guides use a standard format called XMLTV: a data file (often ending in .xml or .xml.gz) with the schedule for many channels. Each channel in your playlist has an ID (in M3U playlists this is the tvg-id), and the app uses it to match the right schedule to the right channel. Your app downloads the guide periodically and stores it on the device.
How to load the EPG
With an Xtream Codes login
The guide is usually included automatically. After signing in, give the app a minute or two to download it. See M3U vs. Xtream Codes for why this login is often the easiest choice.
With an M3U playlist
Some playlists include the guide address in their header. If yours doesn’t, look in the player’s settings for an option such as “EPG URL” or “XMLTV source” and paste the EPG link from your provider.
How to fix common EPG problems
The guide is empty
- Use the app’s option to update or reload the EPG.
- Check that the EPG link is complete if you entered it manually.
- Wait a few minutes after the first sign-in; large guides take time to download.
The times are wrong
This is almost always a time zone setting. Check that your device has the correct time zone, then look in the player for an “EPG time offset” or “time shift” setting and adjust it by the number of hours the guide is off.
Some channels have no guide
Not every channel has guide data, and a mismatch between the channel ID and the guide can leave a channel blank. Report the channel name to your provider’s support team.
The guide is out of date
Set the app to refresh the guide automatically, for example once a day, and make sure it can run when you open it.
Catch-up and reminders
Some players let you set a reminder for a program in the guide, or open a past program directly from the guide if catch-up is available for that channel. Availability depends on the provider, the channel and the app.
Frequently asked questions
Is the EPG included in my IPVario subscription?
Your IPVario login details work with the TV guide in compatible players. Questions about a specific channel? Contact IPVario support.
Why does my EPG load slowly?
Guides with many channels and days are large files. A faster connection and a less crowded device help; see internet speed for IPTV.
Which devices show the EPG?
Any device with a player that supports it, from Smart TVs and Fire TV Sticks to iPhone and iPad.