IPTV EPG GuideElectronic Program Guide Explained
Learn everything about IPTV EPG (Electronic Program Guide). Understand how it works, how to set it up on different apps, and troubleshoot common issues.
What is IPTV EPG?
EPG stands for Electronic Program Guide - it's the digital TV guide that shows you what programs are on each channel, both now and in the future. Think of it like the guide you see on Sky or Freeview, but for your IPTV service.
A good EPG transforms your IPTV experience from random channel surfing into organized viewing. You can see what's on, search for specific shows, plan your evening viewing, and even access catchup content for programs you missed.
VIP TV UK includes comprehensive EPG data for UK channels and many international channels, automatically loaded when you connect to our service.
EPG Quick Facts
- ✓Format: Usually XMLTV format, delivered as a compressed XML file
- ✓Coverage: Typically 7 days of future programming
- ✓Updates: Refreshed daily, usually in early morning
- ✓Size: Can be 50-200MB for comprehensive EPG
EPG Features
What a good IPTV EPG provides for your viewing experience
7-Day Program Listings
See what's on now and for the next 7 days across all channels. Plan your viewing schedule in advance.
Now/Next Display
Quickly see the current program and what's coming up next on any channel without changing channels.
Program Descriptions
Get detailed information about each program including synopsis, actors, genre, and ratings.
Search Functionality
Search for specific shows, movies, or sports events across all channels and time slots.
Catchup Integration
Access missed programs directly from the EPG if your subscription includes catchup/timeshift.
Recording Schedule
Schedule recordings directly from the EPG (if your IPTV app supports recording).
EPG Formats Explained
XMLTV
Standard XML format used by most IPTV providers
JTV
Compressed format common in Eastern European providers
Xtream Codes EPG
Built-in EPG from Xtream Codes providers
Stalker Portal EPG
EPG integrated into Stalker/Ministra portals
EPG Setup by App
TiviMate
- 1Open TiviMate and go to Settings
- 2Navigate to EPG settings
- 3Enable 'Auto-update EPG'
- 4Set update frequency to 'Daily'
- 5Optional: Add custom EPG URL if provided
- 6Wait for EPG to download (first load may take 5-10 minutes)
IPTV Smarters Pro
- 1EPG loads automatically with Xtream Codes login
- 2Go to Settings > EPG Settings
- 3Enable 'Show EPG' option
- 4Set timezone shift if needed (+0 for UK)
- 5Use 'Refresh EPG' to force update
- 6EPG appears on channel info panel
GSE Smart IPTV
- 1Go to Settings > EPG Settings
- 2Enable 'Auto-load EPG'
- 3If using M3U, add EPG URL separately
- 4Set EPG shift to match your timezone
- 5Enable 'Cache EPG' for faster loading
- 6Restart app to apply changes
Kodi + PVR IPTV Simple
- 1Go to add-on settings > EPG Settings
- 2Set EPG source to 'Remote Path (Internet Address)'
- 3Enter your EPG URL in the field
- 4Set timeshift offset to 0 for UK
- 5Enable 'EPG cache'
- 6Restart Kodi to load EPG data
EPG Troubleshooting
⚠️ EPG not loading at all
Possible Causes
- • EPG URL is incorrect
- • EPG server is down
- • Firewall blocking EPG
- • App not configured correctly
Solutions
- ✓ Verify EPG URL is correct and starts with http:// or https://
- ✓ Try loading EPG URL in a web browser to test
- ✓ Disable VPN temporarily to test
- ✓ Check app EPG settings are enabled
⚠️ EPG shows wrong times
Possible Causes
- • Timezone offset incorrect
- • Device time is wrong
- • EPG source in different timezone
Solutions
- ✓ Adjust EPG shift in settings (+0 for UK GMT)
- ✓ Check device time settings
- ✓ Contact provider for correct timezone setting
⚠️ EPG missing for some channels
Possible Causes
- • Channel names don't match EPG
- • Provider doesn't have EPG for all channels
- • EPG data incomplete
Solutions
- ✓ This is normal - not all channels have EPG data
- ✓ International channels often lack EPG
- ✓ Contact provider to request EPG for specific channels
⚠️ EPG loads but doesn't show programs
Possible Causes
- • EPG data is outdated
- • Display bug in app
- • Incompatible EPG format
Solutions
- ✓ Force refresh EPG from settings
- ✓ Clear app cache and restart
- ✓ Try different IPTV player app
⚠️ EPG takes too long to load
Possible Causes
- • Large EPG file (normal for first load)
- • Slow internet connection
- • EPG server congestion
Solutions
- ✓ First load can take 5-15 minutes - be patient
- ✓ Enable EPG caching in settings
- ✓ Schedule EPG updates during off-peak hours
Frequently Asked Questions
What is EPG in IPTV?
EPG (Electronic Program Guide) is the TV guide for IPTV that shows you what programs are currently playing and what's coming up. It's like the on-screen guide you see on Sky or Freeview, showing channel listings, program names, times, and descriptions.
Does VIP TV UK include EPG?
Yes! VIP TV UK includes full EPG support for UK channels and many international channels. EPG is automatically loaded when you use Xtream Codes login. M3U users may need to add the EPG URL separately - this is provided in your welcome email.
Why is EPG important?
EPG helps you find what to watch without channel surfing. You can see program schedules, search for specific shows, plan your viewing, and access catchup content. It transforms IPTV from random channel browsing into a proper TV experience.
How often does EPG update?
EPG typically updates automatically once or twice per day. VIP TV UK's EPG is refreshed daily in the early morning hours. You can usually force a manual refresh from your IPTV app's settings if needed.
Why does my EPG show wrong program times?
This is usually a timezone issue. Check your EPG timezone offset in settings - for UK viewers it should be set to +0 (or GMT). Some apps require you to set this manually. Also check your device's system time is correct.
Can I get EPG for all channels?
EPG coverage varies. UK Freeview and Sky channels have excellent EPG coverage. International channels may have limited or no EPG data available. This is a limitation of EPG data availability, not the IPTV service.
Which IPTV apps have the best EPG?
TiviMate is widely considered to have the best EPG interface with multiple view options and excellent navigation. IPTV Smarters Pro and GSE Smart IPTV also offer solid EPG experiences. Basic players like VLC don't support EPG.
How do I add a custom EPG URL?
In your IPTV app's settings, look for 'EPG Settings' or 'Program Guide'. There's usually an option to add an external EPG URL. Paste the URL provided by your IPTV provider. Save and wait for EPG to download.
Get IPTV with Full EPG Support
VIP TV UK includes comprehensive EPG for UK channels. Never miss your favourite shows with our detailed program guide.