The National Radio and Television Administration of China has issued new regulations for IPTV services. The document was approved on October 23, 2026, and will come into force on November 27, 2026. The rules apply to services provided by registered operators transmitting signals via private networks.
Operators are now required to prioritize live broadcasts. Upon powering on a television, users must be able to access full-screen live content immediately, without encountering startup advertisements. Smart TVs must also support this direct access feature to ensure a seamless viewing experience.
The new mandate requires a simplified user interface, including a dedicated section for free content and clearer pricing displays for paid programs. Operators must reduce the number of paid sections and ensure that navigation, status bars, and recommendation areas comply with the new regulatory standards.
Control mechanisms are also being overhauled to improve usability. IPTV operators must implement a system that allows users to switch between live broadcast sources with a single button press on their remote control. Users will retain the option to choose between live feeds and the interactive home page.
