EPG Time Offset Fix - Correct IPTV Guide Times
Fix IPTV EPG schedules that appear hours ahead or behind. Adjust timezone offsets, device clock settings, and provider XMLTV time shifts.
How do I fix an IPTV EPG time offset?
Quick Answer: Set your device timezone correctly, then apply a manual EPG offset in your player if needed. If the provider uses UTC, add the correct shift for your local time.
EPG times are usually UTC. A wrong offset will shift every program.
EPG time offsets happen when your player interprets XMLTV timestamps in the wrong timezone. The fix is usually a simple offset, but you should validate your device time, player settings, and provider format first.
Verify device timezone and clock
Ensure your device time and timezone are correct. If the device clock is wrong, the guide will show incorrect times no matter what player setting you change.
Apply an EPG offset in the player
Most players include an EPG time shift option. If the guide is ahead by 2 hours, set -2. If it is behind by 3 hours, set +3. Small changes often fix the entire schedule.
Check whether XMLTV uses UTC
Many providers publish XMLTV timestamps in UTC. If your player assumes local time, you will see a consistent shift. Use the player timezone setting or offset field to correct it.
Rebuild the guide cache
After adjusting offsets, clear the EPG cache and refresh. This forces the app to rebuild the guide using the new timezone settings.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is every program 1 or 2 hours off?
That usually means the XMLTV timestamps are in UTC while your player expects local time. Apply a manual offset to align the schedule.
Do I need to change my device time zone?
Yes. Always make sure your device timezone is correct first. Then use the player offset if the guide still shifts.
Will changing the offset break recordings?
The correct offset improves recordings because schedules align with real time. An incorrect offset will cause recordings to start early or late.
Related Guides
How to Setup EPG (TV Guide) for IPTV - Complete Tutorial
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EPG Not Loading? Fix Empty IPTV Guide Grids
Fix EPGs that show a blank grid or never load. Verify XMLTV URLs, match tvg-id values, and refresh guide data the right way.
Best EPG Refresh Schedule for IPTV
Set the right EPG refresh interval to keep guide data accurate without slowing your IPTV app.
Works with these apps
TiviMate
Premium IPTV player with EPG and recording
IPTV Smarters Pro
Cross-platform IPTV player with Xtream support
Perfect Player
Set-top box style IPTV player for Android
OTT Navigator
Powerful IPTV player with Stalker and Xtream support
Compatible devices
Firestick
Affordable streaming stick with Alexa
Android TV
Versatile streaming boxes running Android TV
Apple TV
Premium streaming box from Apple
Written by
IPTV Guide Team
IPTV & Streaming Specialists