Understanding IPTV EPG (TV guide)

What is EPG?

EPG data is usually delivered as XMLTV—a standard format listing programme titles, start times, and descriptions. Your IPTV app merges EPG data with channel lists.

Without EPG, you can still watch live streams, but browsing becomes harder, especially for sports and movies.

Adding EPG to your player

• Copy the XMLTV or EPG URL from your provider dashboard
• Paste it into the EPG section of your IPTV app settings
• Set timezone to your local region
• Force EPG refresh after saving
• Wait several minutes for the first full guide download

Fixing missing or wrong EPG

If programmes show wrong times, verify timezone settings. If EPG is blank, regenerate the URL from your provider and update the app.

See our M3U guide for how playlists and EPG URLs work together.

EPG support by app type

Provider-branded apps usually sync EPG automatically after login. M3U players require manual XMLTV URL entry—see best IPTV apps for player comparison.

Recording and reminders

Few IPTV apps offer DVR on mobile. Use EPG reminders in supported apps to track sports or shows, or note start times manually.