Why FAST TV?

Free ad-supported television (FAST) represents a massive opportunity for content providers to reach new audiences and explore new revenue streams.

Its rising popularity can be seen in the growing number of big companies investing in this new medium, we all know the big hitters in this space. Even subscription video on demand (SVOD) companies are introducing ad-supported tiers to their subscription offer.

But FAST is not a new concept – advertising-supported video on demand (AVOD) has been around for years and (according to Digital TV Research) is expected to generate over $70 billion in ads by 2027. FAST simply extends the offering of ad-supported video content, using ads dynamically inserted by server-side ad-insertion (SSAI) technology to provide linear channels to connected devices, free of charge to anyone who wants to watch.

These new channels can be created from current SVOD or AVOD content. Content owners are using existing libraries to build niche FAST channels as both a source of revenue, and a vehicle for driving subscriptions to more premium content. Some channel originators are even utilizing short-form content which is more commonly delivered over platforms like YouTube or Facebook Watch to expand their portfolio of personalized channels quickly and easily.

So, why should content distributors be thinking about FAST?

A growing market far from saturation
FAST TV is expanding rapidly in order to accommodate a massively underserved market of consumers who want to view personalized, compelling video content without subscribing to yet another SVOD service. According to research by nScreenMedia, the US FAST market is projected to reach $4.1 billion in 2023 with 216 million monthly active users; a number that is likely to continue to grow. Similarly, growth is expected amongst eastern countries too, with an increasing appetite for FAST content already being seen across Europe, Africa, and India. However, in terms of active platforms, there are still very few in the market, leaving plenty of space and time to grow.

Lightweight infrastructure and low cost of implementation
FAST is linear television without the complex infrastructure of traditional TV, making it easy to set up and implement if you have the right partner beside you. With our innovative software and expertise, it is possible to quickly create flexible linear streaming channels, insert broadcast-quality personalized ads, and get tv shows in front of more viewers than ever before. The result? A new and easy way of monetizing content built and made operational in little time at reasonable cost.

A potentially limitless number of channels
Accessible via online streaming, there is no limit to the potential number of FAST channels you’re able to build. There are no capacity constraints, no format limitations, they run on any device, and support on-demand, virtual-linear and live viewing experiences.

Revenue optimization
By leveraging user data, FAST SSAI allows targeted and personalized ads to be dynamically stitched into long-form video content for a seamless transition between content and ads with no latency. The payoff for channel originators when it comes to FAST viewing is measured in CPMs – the cost per 1,000 ad impressions. With the average US adult consuming around five hours of content each day (according to Nielsen), this can add up, and fast.

Broaden access to your inventory
Beyond the revenue potential, launching a FAST channel enables content owners to extend an inventory shelf life and enhance direct-to-consumer digital reach and engagement. Old shows, movies or TV series that may not have been picked up in an SVOD environment have a chance to thrive in the FAST market.

Zero cost to viewers
In a world full of paid-for subscription streaming services, FAST TV offer a completely free alternative. Viewers find it a convenient replacement for traditional pay TV with hundreds of free-to-watch and 24/7 accessible channels.

About FAST Channels TV:

Revolutionize Your TV Experience with FAST Channels TV

Empower your content ownership journey with FAST Channels TV, your premier destination for launching cutting-edge FAST linear channels. Our state-of-the-art white-label platforms and channel playout generation services are tailored for broadcasters, operators, and content owners, enabling swift deployment and seamless monetization of your channels.

For inquiries about launching a FAST channel or adding some or all of our channels to your platform, contact FAST Channels TV at info@fastchannels.tv  or visit https://www.fastchannels.tv/

Russell Foy