As viewers, we all desire to browse the content list of a channel, whether it’s a FAST Channel or a linear TV channel, to know when our favorite shows will be broadcasted. This content list, provided by broadcasters and indicating the schedule of shows, is known as an Electronic Programming Guide (EPG).
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An EPG allows us to see which content was previously broadcasted, what is currently airing, and what will be shown later in the day. While it seems straightforward, creating an EPG schedule involves extensive research and technical details for broadcasters.
Today, we will discuss everything about EPGs, from their definition and usage to their benefits and why they are essential. Continue reading for more information!
What is EPG? What Does EPG Stand For?
EPG stands for Electronic Programming Guide. It is essentially an electronically generated list of content broadcasted by a channel over a certain period.
From the broadcaster’s perspective, it is a timetable according to which they air their content. This timetable can span a day, a week, a month, or even longer, though viewers typically view the schedule for a shorter time frame.
In most modern broadcast systems, the EPG is automatically generated, with broadcasters inputting the content list into the system in formats such as XML, HTML, or CSV files.
What is the EPG Time Shift?
Often, we may need to step away from the TV screen and miss some content. However, with the ability to pause or rewind content, we can catch up on what we missed.
This is possible with the EPG time shift feature, which lets you pause, rewind, and fast-forward the content currently being played on the EPG. This feature offers several benefits:
- Viewers can revisit missed content.
- Unnecessary scenes or songs can be skipped using the fast-forward function.
- Content can be paused temporarily to attend to urgent matters.
What is EPG in IPTV?
When streaming content through an IPTV box, you can view the scheduled content for various channels streamed by that box. This is an example of EPG in IPTV.
In IPTV, the Electronic Programming Guide is a software that allows you to create a schedule for the content your channel (e.g., on Roku) or app will stream, enabling your audience to know when they can watch their favorite shows. On the frontend, EPG lets viewers browse the content being streamed by all channels and see upcoming shows for the next few days.
How is EPG Used?
As a broadcaster, you might wonder how to use EPG for your channel. Start by creating a list of content with their streaming time slots, based on the available content and viewer preferences.
Be meticulous when setting this timetable, as the timing of your shows can significantly impact viewership. Schedule content during times of expected maximum viewership.
Once finalized, feed your schedule into the headend system. Traditional headend systems may take longer, but digital and IPTV headends have simplified the process.
After uploading the schedule, it is transmitted from your headend’s video character generation (CG) equipment to the broadcast server, and then to the viewers.
Benefits of Using an EPG
EPGs allow broadcasters to provide additional information about their channel’s content. The list of upcoming shows helps retain viewers, as they can see when shows of interest will be aired. Viewing the full content list often encourages viewers to return even after watching their favorite shows.
Experience the EPG Feature of Muvi Playout
If you use Muvi Playout for your linear TV channel or FAST channel, the EPG feature can streamline your content scheduling and distribution.
Key highlights of this feature include:
- Complete Flexibility in Distribution: Program a channel once and distribute it to multiple destinations with our multi-format support.
- Exporting the Schedule: Export the channel schedule using common EPG formats supported by broadcasting and IPTV service providers.
- Add Metadata: Include program names, descriptions, start times, and end times, providing viewers with detailed information about the schedule.
- Remove Content for EPG: Ignore unimportant content, such as short-duration filler videos, advertisements, and promo videos, ensuring only significant content is included in the EPG.
- Real-time Updates: Adjustments to the schedule are automatically updated in real-time. View the program schedule on the preview page alongside the player.
- Schedule and Customize for Longer Durations: Schedule content days or weeks in advance or past to meet programming demands, with the ability to update as needed.
- Easy Import: Import EPG data easily with a single click to generate schedules instantly in Muvi Playout.
In addition to EPG, Muvi Playout offers an automated drag-and-drop scheduler for easy scheduling. Sign up with Muvi Playout and elevate your channels. Start your 14-day free trial today!
FAQs
What does EPG stand for?
EPG stands for Electronic Programming Guide.
How does an EPG work?
An EPG helps the audience navigate a channel’s broadcast schedule, showing current, past, and future content.
Can an EPG be used for time shifting?
Yes, time shift EPGs can be used for pausing, rewinding, and fast-forwarding content.
How can EPG benefit broadcasters?
EPGs provide additional content information, helping retain viewers by letting them know when shows of interest will be aired.