A correct EPG needs three links in the chain: a reachable XMLTV source, the same channel identifier in the playlist and XMLTV file, and correct time handling. Check those levels in that order instead of repeatedly refreshing the app.
Key points
- Playback and programme data are independent resources.
- The playlist tvg-id must match the XMLTV channel id.
- A uniform time shift usually points to a time zone or offset problem.
- Never post a private XMLTV URL in a forum or screenshot.
The three links in the programme-guide chain
The playlist describes media entries. XMLTV describes channels and their programmes. The player must match both sides through a stable identifier, then convert programme times for the device time zone.
Display names are not enough. Two different names can match through the same technical id, while identical names can fail when their ids differ.
A five-minute diagnostic
- Confirm that the media entry plays; otherwise EPG is not the first problem.
- Check that the playlist declares a guide through url-tvg, or that the source owner supplies an authorised XMLTV URL separately.
- Check only the URL domain in a browser without exposing the full private address or parameters.
- Refresh the playlist and guide, then let synchronisation finish.
- Compare one playlist tvg-id with the matching XMLTV channel id.
Read the symptom
| Symptom | Likely cause | Useful check |
|---|---|---|
| No programmes anywhere | Missing, unreachable or empty XMLTV | Declared address, network status, file size and dates |
| Only some entries are empty | Missing or mismatched tvg-id | Exact identifier match |
| Every programme is shifted | Source time zone or offset problem | XMLTV time, device zone and daylight saving |
| Programme on the wrong entry | Duplicate or incorrect mapping | Unique channel id and tvg-id values |
| Guide empties after a few days | XMLTV no longer renewed or cache expired | Last programme date and refresh frequency |
What a player can and cannot repair
A player can download, cache, index and display the data it receives. It may infer some name matches, but inference can associate two different channels incorrectly.
It cannot invent missing programmes or permanently repair inconsistent source ids. The reliable fix is for the legitimate source administrator to correct the playlist or XMLTV file.
Details that make a useful bug report
- Source type: M3U, Xtream Codes or Stalker/Ministra.
- Approximate number of affected entries, without exposing private content.
- Observed time shift and device time zone.
- App version and device model.
- Time of the last successful refresh.
- Never include a URL, password, token, MAC or screenshot with credentials.
Common questions
Why does playback work without a TV guide?
Playback addresses and programme data are separate resources. One can remain available while the other is missing or expired.
Will changing the TV time zone always fix a shift?
Only when the device zone is wrong. If XMLTV times are incorrectly encoded, the source data has to be corrected.
Technical references
DringTV is a media player only. It does not provide, sell or recommend any channel, playlist, portal or content. Only use sources you are authorised to access, and follow your source owner’s rules and the law in your country.