While IPTV might initially sound like a broadcast television network, it actually stands for Internet Protocol Television, a method where TV shows, news, and other content are broadcasted using the internet rather than the cable or satellite we were once used to. Instead of dealing with traditional cables or radio waves, it makes use of a speedy internet connection to stream content to your device.
Naturally, it’s become a much more popular option than classic satellite TV because it doesn’t require a complex setup, it can be more cost-effective, and it comes with the customisation and flexibility that streaming services boast. In this case, why not just sign up for a streaming service? Well, because streaming services don’t give you access to live TV channels specific to your region, not to mention the rising subscription costs.
Although IPTV might have been increasingly appealing to you, you might still have questions surrounding what it is, how to get one, and above all—if it’s legal in the UK. So, let’s crack on.
What Is IPTV?
To reiterate, IPTV is inherently similar to satellite TV but uses the internet over traditional methods. In some ways, it’s essentially a hybrid between streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime Video and satellite. You’re getting live content from the TV channels you know and love, as well as access to real-time footie, but it’s all being streamed like you’re watching YouTube.
The appeal? It’s a lot vaster and flexible than regular TV and a lot more accommodating and affordable than streaming services. As long as you have internet available, you can pick a subscription package from one of these IPTV providers and watch just about anything you please.
How Does the IPTV Streaming Process Work?
There are a couple of main types of IPTV services available. One of these is video on demand, which presents a big library of movies and TV shows ready to watch at any time. The next is live TV, which is most similar to traditional broadcasting for news and sports. The final category is catch-up TV, which acts like your trusty old DVR services, letting you watch programs that were broadcasted while you were out or at work or school.
When you’re ready to stream a channel or program, you select it, and that specific content is then brought in from a central service. The data is converted, compressed, and transmitted over the internet, and it plays on whatever screen you’re using at that moment. These devices include smart TVs, tablets, smartphones, computers, and specific streaming devices or set-top boxes.
Most Importantly: Is IPTV Legal?
Well, you might be thinking, ‘This all sounds fine and dandy, so what’s deterring people from using them?’
IPTV services aren’t illegal, yet some IPTV services operate illegally. That means they’re unlicensed and don’t operate according to UK law. Back when the Communications Act was established in 2003, it regulated electronic services, including IPTV providers. Aspects like consumer protection, content, and advertising already abided by an established framework.
Sky Go and BT TV are two examples of legal IPTV services, as they have agreements with distributors and content creators firmly established, have the correct licenses, and comply with UK broadcasting regulations. That means when you choose these types of services, you have the assurance and peace of mind that you’re consuming content ethically. It’s very similar to how licensed UK gambling websites operate under strict regulations surrounding online gambling.
Yet there’s another side of the coin—illegal IPTV services. While these might come at an enticing lower cost and reel you in with all sorts of lucrative offers, the reality is that using one of these services can land you in a lot of trouble. Services without proper licensing and authorisation are completely illegal in the UK, which means you might face legal troubles if you engage with these providers.
These illegal services have been proving to be a real problem recently, with illegal streaming boxes and jailbroken Amazon Fire TV Sticks being spotted and shut down in crackdowns all over Ireland. That’s right—these anti-piracy figures have turned up in real households around Ireland, issuing warnings. Even across the pond in the US, anti-piracy efforts have ramped up, and across Europe, more and more raids have been occurring.
Will the Future of IPTV Change?
Choosing an illegal service isn’t just illegal—it also puts consumers at risk of security and privacy threats and undermines the potential of trusted IPTV services. It’s essentially like we’re reliving the piracy days of the 2000s all over again, where people believe that these services are victimless crimes.
The reality is that there are real consequences for real people, such as those creating the content you’re consuming and legal service providers. It undermines many industries and threatens this up-and-coming form of streaming.
That said, could we see IPTV grow and change in the future? Could it become as established as other forms of TV consumption? Considering that streaming is so vastly popular and IPTV relies on the internet, we could see a different future, one where IPTV may directly compete with streaming services. One day, there may be stronger anti-piracy measures or some sort of convergence or collaboration with streaming services, making it more accessible and integrated into the entertainment landscape.
As IPTV becomes more refined and established, it’s highly possible that it’ll be seen in a better light.
