Internet Protocol Television is a method of streaming contents through the internet protocol instead of receiving TV programs as broadcast signals from the satellite, cable connection and rooftop antenna. It is a new concept emerging in the entertainment industry with the use of technology.
Unlike the traditional way of viewing TV, there is no need to install a cable connection or dish antenna to receive broadcast signals. But, users need a high-speed broadband connection with higher bandwidth (information carrying capacity) which runs at 10 to 100 Mbps to view TV programs on the computer or IPTV set-top box on TV. The set-top box is an adapter that connects television receiver and internet connection that decodes incoming signals into TV programs.
Types of IPTV service
Internet Protocol Television services come in three different types in the market. The first one is Video on Demand (VOD), and Netflix is one of the most exceptional examples of this type.
Second, some of the TV broadcasters make their programs available to online users using a web-based streaming video player. The users can watch the contents at a time of their choosing, and thus, this is called time-shifted IPTV. The British Broadcasting Corporation offers such services to users to view their contents with the BBC iPlayer. Similarly, there are many IPTV players available in the market from different providers.
Third, it is called Live TV or IP simulcasting. This involves live broadcasting of TV programs across the internet while others are watching them.
All three forms of IPTV can work on digital TV, computer, smartphones, and ordinary browsers on the web. The packets of contents are delivered through a public or private network to users.
Possible advantages of IPTV for users
Personalized interactive TV
Traditional TV broadcasting is a one-way or delivery of information from one point to many people. Internet Protocol Television seems to break this mode of watching television. This is a two-way information sharing platform as live audience interacts with the contents. Watchers actively engage with interactive TV to find their preferred programs instead of watching shows what is being delivered to them.
Live TV broadcasting ensures watchers to get the live programs on their platform. The presenter will interact with millions of users from the globe using the web. Further, users can get to watch the
How do IPTV works?
Internet Protocol Television works like how the internet. It enables users to make a call, send an email, and watch TV online. The information travels on the web in the form of packets between the network through an IP address. Similarly, users taking a package can receive contents using the VoIP (Voice over internet protocol) technology. Today users can watch live TV shows and record to view later.
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