Bharat Sanchar Nigam Limited (BSNL), has stepped into the advanced television streaming game with its IPTV (Internet Protocol Television) and IFTV (Intranet Fibre Television) services. Let’s check how these two differ, the benefits, drawbacks, and why BSNL’s IFTV might revolutionize the way we watch TV.
IPTV vs. IFTV: The Main Difference
- IPTV (Internet Protocol Television):
- Streams TV content using the internet.
- Available to BSNL broadband users through partnerships with third-party service providers.
- Consumes part of your data plan (Not with all providers).
- Requires a stable internet connection to avoid buffering.
- IFTV (Intranet Fibre Television):
- Offered over BSNL’s Fiber-to-the-Home (FTTH) network.
- Does not consume your FTTH plan’s internet data.
- Designed for regions with BSNL FTTH infrastructure.
- Promises smoother streaming with no buffering.
Benefits of IPTV and IFTV
IPTV:
- Works on various devices, including Smart TVs, smartphones, and streaming boxes.
- Provides access to hundreds of live TV channels and on-demand services.
- Available with BSNL broadband connections without additional infrastructure.
IFTV:
- Doesn’t consume your internet plan’s data, leaving more bandwidth for other uses.
- Uses dedicated intranet channels, ensuring minimal lag and high resolution.
- Offered free during the trial phase in select regions.
- Provides access to over 500 live TV channels, tailored for Android Smart TVs.
Negatives to Consider
IFTV:
- Currently in initial stages, available only in select regions.
- Supports only Android Smart TVs with version 10 or higher.
- Focused on live TV channels, lacks an extensive on-demand library.
Why BSNL’s IFTV is Revolutionary
- Unlike IPTV, IFTV works on a separate intranet channel, saving internet data.
- Enhances rural connectivity through BSNL’s FTTH expansion.
- Utilizes fiber-optic networks for more than just internet services.
How Users Can Benefit
- High-quality live channels without internet buffering issues.
- Dedicated intranet streaming preserves your internet for other uses.
- Affordable entertainment during trials and likely cost-effective after launch.
Conclusion
BSNL’s shift from IPTV to the innovative IFTV service marks a new era in TV streaming. While IPTV was a good start for internet-based TV in India, IFTV takes it to the next level by leveraging fiber networks to offer a superior viewing experience without consuming data.
If you’re a BSNL FTTH user, this is a game-changer. Keep an eye on its availability in your region and give it a try to see how it transforms your TV viewing experience!
