The internet protocol television (IPTV) market is projected to show steady growth during the forecast period.
IPTV is a service that transmits television content through the Internet Protocol (IP) network rather than using conventional cable, satellite, or terrestrial formats. Typically, IPTV services are provided over a dedicated or managed network, such as Digital Subscriber Line connectivity.
IPTV utilizes Internet Protocol to transmit and broadcast television programs over the Internet, offering users dynamic features that enhance the viewing experience in comparison to traditional methods like radio frequency broadcast, satellite broadcast, and cable television. The use of a broadband connection as the transmission medium for IPTV is significantly more efficient than previous modes of transmission. Growing demand for internet penetration, rising usage of smart devices, and progress in network technologies are driving internet protocol television market growth.
The increasing prevalence of internet usage plays a vital role in the widespread adoption of IPTV, serving as the fundamental basis for a seamless viewing experience. Unlike conventional cable or satellite television, IPTV relies on an internet connection to provide content. As internet accessibility becomes more prevalent and cost-effective worldwide, especially in developing areas, it establishes a fertile environment for the expansion of IPTV. A dependable and high-speed internet connection is imperative for IPTV. Interruptions and delays in streaming hinder the viewing experience. Thus, adequate bandwidth is necessary to guarantee the uninterrupted streaming of high-quality video content.
For Instance, according to an article in GSMA in 2024, as of the end of 2023, there were 5.6 billion individuals (69% of the global population) subscribed to a mobile service, showing an increase of 1.6 billion people from 2015. The growth in mobile internet usage has been even more significant. By the conclusion of 2023, 58% of the world's population were using mobile internet, totalling 4.7 billion users - a rise of 2.1 billion since 2015.
The rise in popularity of smart devices, especially smart TVs, tablets, and smartphones, is greatly accelerating the adoption of IPTV. These devices have revolutionized the way people enjoy content, and IPTV fits perfectly into this new trend. Unlike old-fashioned TVs that need external set-top boxes, smart TVs have integrated applications that enable users to easily access Internet Protocol television services. This eliminates the necessity for extra equipment and streamlines the viewing process. Moreover, the accessibility of on-demand content on a big screen makes smart TVs an attractive entertainment center for IPTV enthusiasts.
Network technology advancements are crucial in driving the IPTV market growth. The challenges posed by internet speed and bandwidth limitations are being overcome through infrastructure enhancements and the implementation of cutting-edge technologies like 5G. This sets the stage for a greatly improved IPTV viewing experience. In the past, concerns about buffering, delays, and poor video quality hindered the adoption of IPTV. These issues were a result of inadequate bandwidth to support the data-intensive nature of streaming video content. However, enhancements in network infrastructure, such as the expansion of fibre optic networks, are laying a stronger groundwork for IPTV services. Fiber optic cables, which transmit data using light signals, offer much faster and more reliable internet connections compared to traditional copper cables.
For instance, according to a GSMA article published in February 2024, GSMA Intelligence (GSMAi) predicts that 5G connections will make up more than half (51%) of mobile connections by 2029, increasing to 56% by the end of the decade, establishing 5G as the primary connectivity technology. The rollout of 5G has been the most rapid among mobile generations, exceeding one billion connections by the conclusion of 2022, projected to reach 1.6 billion connections by the end of 2023, and 5.5 billion connections by 2030.
Internet Protocol Television Market
North America is anticipated to account for a significant share of the internet protocol television market growth due to several favourable factors. To begin with, the increasing number of viewers who prefer on-demand content and have a keen interest in high-definition quality are finding IPTV's extensive libraries and superior picture quality, including HD and 4K, extremely attractive. Additionally, the rapid growth of internet access and the widespread use of smart devices such as smart TVs have created an ideal environment for seamless IPTV streaming.
The convergence of consumer demand, technological advancements, and user-friendly devices is driving substantial growth in the North American IPTV market. For instance, according to the Internet World Stats, the estimated population of internet users in 2022 is 372,555,585, which is the highest in the region.
OTT streaming platforms such as Netflix and Disney+ provide comparable on-demand content selections at competitive prices, which compels IPTV providers to distinguish themselves with unique content, inventive features, or attractive pricing models.
As internet usage continues to grow, maintaining a reliable and fast internet connection is essential for uninterrupted streaming of IPTV, particularly for high-definition (HD) and 4K content. However, this can pose a difficulty in remote regions or areas with limited internet infrastructure.