FAST (Free Ad-supported Streaming TV)

What is FAST?

Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) is a digital streaming model where viewers access live, linear channels — completely free of charge — in exchange for watching ads. Think of FAST as the modern reinvention of traditional broadcast TV, but streamed over the internet and monetized entirely through advertising.

FAST channels offer scheduled programming that mimics the linear TV experience, complete with commercial breaks and real-time broadcasts. Unlike SVOD (Subscription Video on Demand) services, FAST doesn’t require subscriptions, logins, or payment credentials, making it an accessible and fast-growing part of the streaming ecosystem.

How does FAST TV work?

FAST platforms aggregate content into 24/7 streaming channels, each dedicated to a specific genre, franchise, or audience segment. These channels run continuously on a loop or curated schedule — just like cable — but are streamed digitally via apps on smart TVs, mobile devices, and OTT platforms.

FAST services generate revenue by dynamically inserting advertisements into these linear streams. This approach gives content owners a way to monetize libraries they already own while offering viewers a seamless, cost-free experience.

How is FAST different from AVOD?

While both FAST and AVOD (Advertising-Based Video on Demand) deliver free content supported by ads, they differ in user experience and content delivery:

• FAST delivers linear, scheduled content. Viewers tune in to a channel and watch what’s currently airing — no pausing, rewinding, or choosing specific titles.
• AVOD offers an on-demand experience. Viewers can search for and watch specific shows or movies at their convenience.

In short, FAST is scheduled and channel-based — replicating the lean-back, passive TV experience. AVOD is on-demand and user-controlled.

What are examples of FAST channels?

Several major players dominate the FAST landscape, including:

• Pluto TV: Owned by Paramount Global, Pluto TV offers 250+ curated channels across news, entertainment, sports, and more. It’s available in North America, Europe, and Latin America.
• Tubi: Acquired by Fox Corporation, Tubi provides both AVOD and FAST content. It serves 74M+ monthly users across the U.S., Canada, Australia, and Latin America.
• The Roku Channel: Roku’s FAST offering includes licensed and original content, available across the U.S., U.K., and Mexico.
• Samsung TV Plus: Preloaded on Samsung smart TVs, this FAST service delivers live content streams in categories like music, film, news, and kids programming.
• Amazon Freevee: Amazon’s FAST platform blends original content with classic shows and movies across curated linear channels.

Why is FAST growing so quickly?

FAST is booming due to several converging market trends:

• Cost-conscious consumers: Viewers are increasingly cutting back on subscriptions. FAST fills the demand for free, high-quality content.
• Smart TV adoption: Most smart TVs come preloaded with FAST apps, reducing friction for viewers.
• Global expansion: As internet infrastructure improves worldwide, FAST becomes more accessible, enabling new monetization opportunities.
• Content owners monetizing archives: Studios and distributors are turning dormant content libraries into revenue-generating FAST channels.

Industry forecasts project FAST ad revenue to surpass $10 billion in the U.S. alone by 2027, with global growth following suit.

How are FAST channels created & launched?

Launching a FAST channel involves several key steps:

1. Content Licensing

Acquire rights to a library of content, either owned or licensed from studios and producers. The content must be cleared for monetization through advertising.

2. Channel Programming & Scheduling

Content is organized into a linear format with a 24/7 schedule. Unlike AVOD, this involves clock-based programming to simulate a traditional channel lineup.

3. Ad Insertion Setup

Ad breaks are inserted using SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion) or CSAI (Client-Side Ad Insertion) technologies. These systems enable real-time, targeted ad delivery.

4. Distribution

The FAST channel is distributed across CTV apps and platforms such as Roku, Samsung TV Plus, and Amazon Freevee. Multi-platform reach is key for scale.

5. Promotion and Monetization

Effective marketing helps drive viewer awareness. Monetization occurs via programmatic ad sales, direct deals, or platforms like Wurl AdPool, which connects to top-tier demand sources.

Who benefits from launching FAST channels?

FAST presents a compelling opportunity for:

• Content Owners: Unlock long-tail value from underutilized libraries and reach new global audiences.
• Distributors: Launch genre-specific or niche channels to attract targeted viewers and premium advertisers.
• Advertisers: Access brand-safe, high-quality environments with advanced targeting and high completion rates.
• Platforms and OEMs: Increase viewer engagement and revenue by hosting diverse FAST channel lineups.

What role does Wurl play in FAST?

Wurl is the leading platform powering global FAST distribution and monetization. Our Global FAST Pass solution enables content companies to:

• Launch new channels quickly
• Integrate ads and streamline monetization
• Distribute to 3,000+ channels across major platforms
• Reach viewers in 50+ countries
• Scale revenue through AdPool, our programmatic ad marketplace

Whether you’re a studio, media company, or independent content creator, Wurl makes it simple to enter — and thrive — in the FAST ecosystem.