Internet Protocol Television or IPTV for short is a video broadcasting technology that delivers video content by using the Internet. Instead of using traditional mediums like cable or satellite to deliver the content, IPTV uses connected IP networks, that allow other services such as VoIP, computer data exchange, or Internet access to be available from the same network. IPTV is a perfect fit for the entire Internet-of-Things concept and other ITC trends.
While it is based on IP protocol which is the staple of data provision for almost any device connected to the Internet, IPTV can truly support any new device and it can be implemented with different services. Both things make IPTV easily shaped to meet all the expectations of the viewers, comply with marketing strategies, and it allows IT staff to implement and maintain the solution without excessive efforts. Internet protocol television is a widespread technology that can be found almost anywhere including hotels, households, even on airplanes and ships.
IPTV was originally available on computers and television with set-top boxes, however, it quickly became a cross-platform after the Internet and mobile applications became popular in IPTV solutions. Mobile applications and web players introduced Live TV and Video-on-demand to most devices, from tablets and smartphones to laptops and Smart TVs. Today, IPTV is a wide-spread and known tech that stands strong and will continue to be the driving force that enhances the user experience as more households, providers, and organizations are upgrading their TV systems.
The History and Development of IPTV
This technology was first introduced in the 1990s as a way to deliver video content over computer networks. Useful video compression algorithms with a reliable packet delivery protocol allowed this technology to be strong enough that professional solutions could be used and developed in commercial installations.
A program called MBONE is one of the first solutions that could transmit video ass multicast or unicast, and also the first to use the expression “IP/TV”. Several different Internet solutions followed it, which gave a green light to IPTV and OTT solutions. By the end of the 1990s, this technology attracted the attention of ISP, Telcos, and other providers. Video-on-demand and Live TV became a profitable business with a lot of investors in the industry.
The Uses of IPTV
As mentioned above, there are various cases were IPTV can be used, including:
- Residential – homes, hotels, condos, living quarters, and accommodation clusters all use this technology today. The installations of this kind are usually deployed as a triple play service delivered by one cable. A lot of the subscription IPTV service delivered require the user to get a set-top box that is connected to their ISP router. If you are interested in the package you can get, click here.
- Corporate – education, informational, and dedicated TV programs boost the corporate media life and allow companies to have their own mass media, which could also be private for keeping sensitive data inside the corporate IT infrastructure that is highly secured.
- Commercial – OTT and IPTV subscription providers, Telecom providers, owners of local networks, or building-wide networks are perfect examples of companies that simply use this technology for their profit.
- Transportation – people that are traveling by buses, trains, ships, or planes tend to seek entertainment during their long trip. Well, this technology can easily deliver Live TV, VoD, on-board shopping, route information, and important announcements which help passengers feel less stressed during transit.
Conclusion
As you can see, IPTV can have various benefits to us and you will only need a set-top box, an Internet connection, and a subscription to gain access to your favorite TV shows, movies, and video.
