The EPG — Electronic Programme Guide — is the TV guide built into your IPTV app. It shows what is on each channel now and what is coming up, just like the guide on a traditional TV. Getting the EPG working correctly is one of the most common questions from new IPTV users, and this guide walks you through everything you need to know.
What Is an IPTV EPG?
An EPG (Electronic Programme Guide) is a schedule of TV programmes displayed in a grid format within your IPTV app. It shows the current programme on each channel, upcoming shows, and often includes descriptions and programme start times. A working EPG transforms your IPTV experience — instead of scrolling through channel numbers, you can browse what is on and jump straight to the programme you want.
How Does the IPTV EPG Work?
The EPG data is provided by your IPTV service alongside your channel playlist. When you subscribe to Smooth Stream, your M3U URL or Xtream Codes login includes EPG data automatically — you do not need to find a separate EPG source. Your IPTV app downloads the EPG schedule, matches it to your channels, and displays the programme guide. The EPG typically updates every 24 hours.
Setting Up EPG on TiviMate
TiviMate loads the EPG automatically when you add your Smooth Stream playlist via Xtream Codes. If your EPG is not showing: open TiviMate, go to Settings > Playlists > select your Smooth Stream playlist > EPG. Ensure the EPG URL is set to the one provided by Smooth Stream. Tap Update EPG and wait for the download to complete — this can take a few minutes depending on your internet speed. Once updated, the TV guide will populate for all channels.
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See plansSetting Up EPG on IPTV Smarters Pro
IPTV Smarters Pro loads the EPG automatically when you add your playlist via Xtream Codes login. If the EPG is missing or empty: go to the Settings menu within IPTV Smarters, select your account, and check that the EPG URL field contains your Smooth Stream EPG URL. Tap Reload to refresh the EPG data. If channels still show no programme information, wait 10-15 minutes for the EPG data to fully download and refresh the app.
Fixing Common EPG Problems
The most common EPG problems and their fixes:
- EPG shows wrong programmes — channels may be mismatched; re-add your playlist via Xtream Codes rather than M3U for better EPG mapping
- EPG is empty or not loading — force-close your IPTV app, clear its cache, and reopen to trigger a fresh EPG download
- EPG works on some channels but not others — some channels have no EPG data available; this is normal for some international or niche channels
- EPG is one hour out — check your device timezone settings; your IPTV app reads the device timezone to display programme times correctly
- EPG stopped working after an update — reinstall your IPTV app and re-add your playlist from scratch
EPG and Catch-Up TV
Many IPTV services, including Smooth Stream, offer catch-up TV functionality through the EPG. When catch-up is available, you can scroll back through the EPG to programmes that have already aired and watch them on demand — similar to BBC iPlayer or ITV Hub but for all included channels. In TiviMate, catch-up programmes are marked with an archive icon in the EPG grid.
Which IPTV App Has the Best EPG?
TiviMate has the best EPG implementation of any IPTV app — a clean grid layout, fast loading, catch-up support, and the ability to set reminders for upcoming programmes. IPTV Smarters Pro has a solid EPG that works well for most users. GSE Smart IPTV and Perfect Player also offer EPG support. For the best EPG experience on Firestick or Android TV box, TiviMate is the clear recommendation.
Get Smooth Stream With Full EPG Included
Smooth Stream includes full EPG data with every subscription — no separate EPG URL needed, no extra configuration. Message us on WhatsApp for your free 24-hour trial and test the EPG on your device before you subscribe. No credit card required, backed by our 7-day money-back guarantee.