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Electronic programme guide (EPG): getting the most out of it

What is an EPG, where does its data come from, and how does it help you choose? Tips on using the programme guide, categories, channel switching and age ratings.

Updated: 2 min read

In short

  • The EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) is the on-screen TV guide: it shows what is on now and later on each channel.
  • The data is supplied by broadcasters, so for live events – for example extra time – the actual schedule may differ.
  • Streamy's programme guide helps you choose with live preview images, channel logos and time slots you can scroll by category.

What is an EPG?

The EPG is the digital successor to the printed TV guide: it shows channel schedules on screen, broken down into time slots. On IPTV it is usually interactive: you can scroll, search and switch to the selected programme with one click.

What does the programme guide show?

  • the programme title, start and end time,
  • a short description, genre and often the cast,
  • the age rating – see: age ratings,
  • channel logos and, on some services, a live preview image,
  • whether the programme can be watched again, if the provider offers catch-up.

Where does the data come from?

Programme data is supplied by the broadcasters and displayed by the provider. For live broadcasts – sport, gala evenings, extended news coverage – the actual programme may differ from the plan, and the next programme then starts later too.

Tips for using it effectively

  1. Browse by categorySport, films, kids, news: categories narrow down the choice quickly.
  2. Use the player's channel switcherIn Streamy's player you can browse channels without interrupting playback while the broadcast keeps running.
  3. Check the evening line-up in advanceScroll ahead through the time slots to see what starts later.
  4. Pay attention to labelsAge rating and quality labels (for example HD) help you decide.

Frequently asked questions

Why doesn't the programme guide match what is actually on?

Channels provide their programme data in advance. For live events or unscheduled changes, the actual broadcast may differ from the plan.

How many days ahead can I see the schedule?

This depends on the provider and the channel; data is usually available a few days in advance.

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