FAST channels bring TV full circle
Free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) is the latest segment in the broad TV landscape to take the spotlight, amplified by an influx of content and backing from industry heavyweights like FOX, Paramount and Roku. As a result, audience engagement and interest from advertisers are rising, positioning FAST as the streaming industry’s latest growth opportunity.
While much of the content distributed via FAST channels is available across many different platforms, it’s notably different from what’s available across the industry’s leading subscription video on-demand (SVOD) services. It’s also newer than many might think.
Only 13.4% of the programs on FAST channels were made before 1990
-Gracenote Global Video Data
The recent airing of Super Bowl LIX on Tubi highlights both the high-profile nature of some FAST content and the close resemblance to the programming we see on traditional TV.
Success in FAST will depend on similar strategies that apply elsewhere, but user experience is critical—especially until content distribution becomes more platform-exclusive. In FAST, at least in the short- to medium-term, user experience becomes the primary value proposition to drive both differentiation and long-term business success.
Missing metadata in FAST programming may be hindering ad revenue
FAST channels will become increasingly dependent on metadata to inform ad buys in programmatic systems.
Streaming has viewers captive in a fractured CTV landscape
Streaming viewers have become overwhelmed by choice and fragmentation. This sentiment is mounting, and it has a range of downstream effects.
The streaming paradox: More content has led to less satisfaction
Viewer frustrations are on the rise as streaming service congestion increases, highlighting opportunities for improved UX and content discovery.