What was the original purpose of Internet protocol television (IPTV)?

The original purpose of Internet Protocol Television (IPTV) was to allow telephone companies to compete with cable operators. This was particularly important as the telecommunications industry evolved and sought to offer more comprehensive services beyond traditional voice communication. By leveraging existing telephone infrastructure, specifically DSL (Digital Subscriber Line) technology, companies aimed to deliver television programming over the internet, thereby providing an alternative to cable services. This competitive landscape encouraged innovations and advancements in delivery mechanisms and user experience for television content, ultimately leading to the broad array of IPTV services we see today.

In contrast, while video on demand and enhancing mobile phone streaming have become integral parts of IPTV's offerings, they were not the original motivations behind its development. Similarly, while broadband internet services could be viewed as a component or benefit of IPTV, the specific goal was to create a competitive environment for television services rather than to serve solely as a broadband provider.