IPTV EPG Wrong Time — How to Fix

By IPTV Openbox • 2026-05-28

You are watching a live sports event and the programme guide says it started an hour ago — but it clearly started now. Or the EPG shows last night's schedule all day. This is the EPG time offset problem, and it is common across IPTV player apps. Here is how to diagnose and fix it.

What Causes EPG Time Offset?

Fix 1: Set the EPG Offset in Your App

Most IPTV player apps have an EPG time offset setting, usually expressed in hours (e.g. +1, +2, -3). If your EPG is showing times that are consistently 1 or 2 hours behind, you simply need to add that offset. In TiviMate, go to Settings > EPG > Time offset. In IBO Player, check the EPG settings section. Try +1 first; if the guide is now correct, you are done.

Fix 2: Set the Correct Timezone in App Settings

Some apps default to UTC regardless of your device location. Look for a timezone or region setting within the app (not the device system settings). Set it to your correct timezone — for Norway this is CET (UTC+1) or CEST (UTC+2) during summer. This is separate from the offset and should be set first.

Fix 3: Enable Automatic Time on Your Device

If your device clock is even slightly off, EPG timestamps will drift. On Android, go to Settings > General Management > Date and Time and enable "Automatic date and time." On Samsung Smart TV, go to Settings > General > System Manager > Time and enable "Auto." Restart the IPTV app afterwards.

Fix 4: Force an EPG Refresh

EPG data is downloaded periodically and cached. If the cache becomes stale or corrupt, the guide will be incorrect. In TiviMate, go to Settings > EPG and tap "Refresh EPG now." In IBO Player, go to EPG settings and select "Update EPG." This forces a fresh download from the EPG server.

Fix 5: Check the EPG URL in Your Credentials

Sometimes the EPG URL provided with your subscription needs to be re-entered into the app. If you received your credentials via WhatsApp from IPTV Openbox, check that the EPG URL field in your app matches exactly what was sent. Copy-paste errors are common. If you are unsure, contact us via WhatsApp for your current EPG URL.

Still Not Fixed?

If none of the above resolves the issue, it may be a server-side EPG synchronisation problem. Our support team can check this for you. Reach out via WhatsApp support and we will investigate. Also check our FAQ page for more troubleshooting tips.