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What is IPTV?
If you are reading this, you must be eager to know exactly what IP TV, or Internet Protocol Television, is all about. Have you ever streamed a movie or TV show on the Internet? IPTV is based on similar technology, and there is nothing complicated about it.
With IP TV, you have the opportunity to experience three different types of content:
- Live Television: Real-time broadcasts, with or without interactivity.
- Video on Demand: Watch movies and TV shows whenever you want.
- Delayed Programming: Catch up on shows that were broadcast earlier.
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What is the difference between IPTV and ITV?
To enjoy IP TV, you will need a player and a subscription, along with a set-top box and a high-speed internet connection. This setup allows you to stream media and view it on your device.
In contrast, ITV involves sending the television broadcast to a decoder, similar to how a cable box works. This eliminates the need to browse websites for content, enabling you to stream multimedia content directly and comfortably from home.
IPTV Standards Vary
IP TV standards differ across geographical regions. For instance, in Europe, these services are standardized by the European Telecommunications Standards Institute and governed by the Hybrid Broadcast Broadband TV Consortium. Additionally, country-specific regulations must be considered. Understanding these different standards is crucial before purchasing an IP TV subscription to ensure it meets your needs.
History of IPTV
IP TV was born in 1995 through Precept Software Systems, founded by C. Judith Estrin and Bill Carrico. They developed a Windows-based application that delivered audio and video streams from multiple sources over the Internet. In 1998, Cisco Systems acquired Precept Software, marking a significant milestone. Kingston Technology launched an IP TV subscription service in 1999, integrating video-on-demand by 2001.
Growth of the IPTV Services Market
The IP TV market has seen significant growth, especially in recent years. In 2009, there were 28 million IP TV subscribers worldwide, which increased to 83 million by 2013. Revenue grew from $12 billion in 2009 to $38 billion in 2013. Most subscribers are in Europe and Asia, while North America and Europe generate the most revenue. Recently, Central and Eastern Europe, along with countries like Sri Lanka, Pakistan, and India, have introduced IP TV services.
IPTV services have much room to grow in the future
The reduction in expenses is driving rapid growth, and IPTV’s interactive capabilities allow users to personalize their experiences and delivery modes efficiently.
Legal Issues Related to IP-TV
In most countries, IP TV services are offered by at least one operator, whether government or private. In Canada and the United States, independent IP TV services operate under a paid license fee, avoiding legal issues. However, streaming IP TV services without the proper license can result in criminal penalties, so it’s important to ensure compliance.
How Are the Services Used?
Residential subscribers use IP TV for watching TV, movies, and videos. Corporations and commercial entities also use IP TV to transmit audiovisual content in offices, hotels, airports, sports stadiums, and schools.
Hybrid IP TV Services
Hybrid IP TV services have gained popularity for overcoming traditional IP TV obstacles. They offer a combination of television, shopping, games, internet applications, e-government features, video telephony, and video-on-demand services, all delivered over the Internet. Hybrid IP TV boosts the popularity of online video aggregators like Vimeo and YouTube and allows ISPs to bundle packages for customers.