What is IPTV?

Recently, television programming has come in all kinds of forms. The level of service is usually dictated depending on how the TV signals are transmitted. One of the up-and-coming technologies when it comes to transmitting TV programming to your home is the so-called internet protocol television, more popularly known as IPTV. How does this technology work and how it is considered as “the future of TV by some of its proponents?

Though it is only now that the world is feeling its presence, but the infrastructure for internet protocol television has actually existed for quite a while now. The technology was first conceptualized in the 1990s, when some software companies developed means to do live video streaming online using Internet Protocol technology. Over the years, these same companies, as well as full-fledged television companies, have experimented with its viability. Though the response has been positive, it is mainly being held back by the speed (or more like the lack of it) of internet connection. If the connection is not fast enough, the signal can get severely delayed, resulting in a compromised viewing experience. But with improvements in internet connection, the commercial use of IPTV has been growing, and signs point that it cannot be stopped any time soon. In fact, it’s been forecasted that within 2-3 years, subscribers (and profits) from the IPTV business would triple at the very least.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using internet protocol television? Let’s focus first on the advantages. The first advantage is you can use this technology as long as you have an internet connection. Sometimes, these services come bundled with other IP services such as internet connection and online telephone services. Now, you won’t have to worry about signal or cable interruptions. Another advantage of such a system is your choices are not limited by the service provider (i.e. wire size for cable TV users). You can get the content you want, when you want it. And lastly, such a system allow for a more interactive viewing experience. But there are disadvantages too with this system. The main con in this system is that it’s over-reliant on an efficient internet connection. If you don’t have it, you can’t fully enjoy internet protocol TV services.

IPTV is dubbed as the future of television viewing. But even if it is considered the future of television, that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it as soon as today.