A Guide to Understanding the Differences Between Consumer IPTV and Hotel IPTV Solutions

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The way individuals consume TV content has changed rapidly over the past decade.  According to Nielsen, streaming services overtook cable TV for the first time in July 2022, and have dominated during each month of 2023, according to their monthly report on the subject, The Gauge.  

Streaming has firmly established itself as the leading viewing platform in the United States, outpacing cable TV. This dominance of streaming services in TV consumption, not only in the U.S. but worldwide, marks a noteworthy trend. However, the implications for commercial establishments that heavily rely on TV consumption, such as hotels, resorts, and casinos are a matter of considerable concern for many businesses. The evolution of entertainment infrastructure is now a critical consideration for these establishments. With streaming becoming the predominant mode of content consumption, hotels are wise to consider undergoing adaptation and enhancement of their offerings to align with the changing preferences of their guests and patrons. 

This being said it is crucial for businesses to grasp the key differences between consumer IPTV and hotel IPTV solutions. This is particularly significant given that the domain of hotel IPTV configurations continues to be relatively uncharted. 

Jason Morrill, Technical Solutions Engineer at MDM Commercial, and an expert in the field, sheds light on the distinctions between consumer and commercial TV setups, revealing the intricate processes that make the latter unique. 

Morrill explained that when buyers purchase a smart TV for personal use, it often comes preloaded with a myriad of apps catering to their favorite streaming services. These consumer TVs are designed with the assumption that they will be used in a home setting, where individual logins for platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime are the norm. The commercial environment, however, presents a different set of challenges. Businesses are cautious about allowing a single login across multiple TVs or letting customers input their credentials, primarily due to security risks. Unlike consumer TVs, commercial setups require a meticulous integration process to access Over-The-Top (OTT) apps like Netflix and Amazon Prime. 

This involves investing in robust internet connectivity, ensuring compatibility with a variety of streaming platforms, and possibly reevaluating traditional cable TV subscriptions. The shift towards streaming also opens up opportunities for personalized content delivery, interactive features, and integrated services that cater to the diverse needs of guests in these commercial spaces. Morrill further explained that one common misconception arises from the observation that Netflix is easily accessible in hotels, stating that when companies request smart TVs capable of supporting Netflix, a simple “yes” can be misleading. This misunderstanding often stems from the assumption that setting up commercial TVs is akin to the straightforward process of installing consumer TVs at home.  

Morrill highlighted the vital importance of integrating a TV with a Property Management System (PMS) in commercial settings, such as hotels and resorts. The PMS, a cornerstone in the hotel industry, manages guest information. Through integration with a TRIC server, the commercial TV setup ensures that all entered credentials are securely wiped when a guest checks out, thereby enhancing security and privacy. This process relies on specialized technology, accessible through MDM Commercial’s trusted product portfolio, including features like Web OS on our LG smart TVs. Web OS serves as the operating system, leveraging the Pro:Centric platform. This sophisticated interaction ensures smooth communication with an external server, streamlining the direct integration process from the PMS to a Pro:Centric server, which subsequently communicates seamlessly with the TV through Web OS. For assistance in selecting the optimal commercial-grade smart TVs, Pro:Centric solutions, and other cutting-edge technologies, reach out to one of our knowledgeable team members online or call 800-359-6741 today. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

When it comes to setting up an IPTV solution, businesses face unique challenges that require expert guidance. MDM Commercial is your trusted partner, providing seasoned professionals to guide your business through every step of the process. Our team understands the intricacies of implementing an IPTV system tailored to your specific needs. 

At MDM Commercial, our seasoned team of pros assists your business in navigating the decision-making process for a seamless IPTV implementation. We address your unique concerns, including potential security risks associated with using a single login across multiple TVs. Unlike consumer-grade TVs, where the absence of a secure mechanism to wipe or remove credentials poses a risk, our IPTV solutions prioritize the security of your business. We can also tailor your IPTV solution for your hospital patient TV systems, hotel, or commercial space. 

In a world where streaming TV continues to dominate in popularity, staying abreast of this transformative trend is essential for company owners who wish to maintain a competitive edge and ensure a satisfying entertainment experience for clientele in commercial facilities reliant on television consumption. 

In commercial environments, where security and privacy are paramount, the integration of systems like PMS and the meticulous wiping of credentials add layers of complexity.  

Experience Success with MDM Commercial’s Cutting-Edge IPTV Solutions for Your Business     

At the forefront of innovation, our state-of-the-art commercial IPTV solutions are designed to elevate your business, offering a seamless and dynamic streaming experience. Whether you seek a tailored hotel IPTV solution, specialized IPTV solutions for hospitals, or have distinct business requirements, our solutions guarantee that your customers can effortlessly indulge in their favorite content. With a commitment to excellence, we provide a platform where entertainment meets efficiency, enhancing the overall experience for both you and your clientele. 

As we step into the future of TV technology, understanding these nuances becomes imperative for businesses seeking to provide a cutting-edge viewing experience in a secure and sophisticated manner. 

Elevate your entertainment experience with MDM Commercial’s expertise in IPTV solutions. Contact us today, and let our team guide you toward a future where your business effortlessly delivers the streaming experience your customers expect. 

More IPTV Insights for Hoteliers from MDM Commercial’s Jason Morrill 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

RF vs. IPTV Output 

Morrill mentions that the team at MDM Commercial offers both RF and IPTV solutions and that he encourages curious businesses to contact the team for a custom solution and quote. Additionally, he emphasizes the prowess of IPTV, resembling over-the-top (OTT) functionality, providing two-way communication for on-demand features like pausing, rewinding, and fast-forwarding. 

Two-Way Communication Advantage  

Morrill underscores the significance of two-way communication in IPTV distribution. Unlike RF, IPTV allows users to request specific content, providing a more interactive and flexible viewing experience. This becomes a pivotal advantage for owner-operators, simplifying management, installation, and troubleshooting. 

Scalability and Cost Efficiency of IPTV  

The scalability of IPTV systems becomes a standout feature, easily accommodating additions or modifications. Morrill contrasts this with the complexities of expanding an RF setup, which requires careful rebalancing. He emphasizes the cost-effectiveness of IPTV, particularly in new builds, as it utilizes readily available consumer off-the-shelf equipment. 

Wi-Fi Limitations and Commercial IP  

Wi-Fi, Morrill clarifies, is not the preferred method for commercial IPTV distribution due to high-density usage and limited radio frequency real estate. Commercial IPTV, conducted over hardwired category cabling, ensures stability and reliability, particularly in large-scale environments like hospitals and stadiums.  

IPTV Distribution for Enhanced Integration 

Morrill highlights the integrative possibilities of IPTV distribution. It not only serves immediate needs but also lays the groundwork for future enhancements and integrations, offering owner-operators a strategic advantage in creating a robust and adaptable network infrastructure. 

Optimal Timing for IPTV Upgrade: New Construction or Remodeling 

Morrill highlights the opportune moment for hotels to embrace IPTV—during new constructions or remodels. Emphasizing the industry standard of CAT6 cabling, Morrill unveils the challenge clients face in grasping the intricacies of IP distribution infrastructure. Contrasting traditional coaxial cables with CAT6, he stresses the need for clients to specify equipment requirements.  

Are you a hotel or resort in this category? Now is the perfect time to call us about our IPTV solutions, digital signage, LG smart hotel TVs, and more. Simply reach out to one of our knowledgeable team members online or call 800-359-6741 today.