Overview of what FAST Channels are and why you should want to distribute your title(s) on them.
In this guide:
FAST stands for Free Ad-Supported TV services, which are streaming services that offer free access to television shows and movies in exchange for advertisements.
FAST Channels offer a linear experience similar to cable television, meaning that the programming is scheduled and viewers tune in at a specific time to watch.
Examples of FAST Channels include:
The Benefits of Distributing on FAST
- Reach niche audiences
- FAST channel distribution expands your reach to new (and, most importantly niche) audiences. Your movie or show may be programmed on a genre-specific FAST channel, where the audience is ultimately already interested in the content that's scheduled.
- Continuous viewing
- Due to the programmed nature of FAST Channels, viewers can continuously access Movies and Shows without having to browse or search. The selections are made for them, ensuring viewership!
- FAST is growing rapidly
- 4.1 billion USD is the expected revenue of linear free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) in the US in 2023. (Statista)
- 9 billion USD is the FAST channel ad revenue projection by 2026. (S&P Global Market Intelligence)
- Ad impressions increased 18% on FAST channels in 2022, and viewing time has gone up 10% year-over-year. (Conviva)
- What is the difference between FAST and AVOD?
- AVOD, another type of Ad-Supported business model, stands for Advertising-Based Video On Demand. It is a type of streaming service supported by advertisements that allows users to watch their favorite shows and movies without having to pay a subscription fee. AVOD services offer an on-demand experience, where users can watch their favorite shows and movies at any time they want.
- If my title is licensed to a FAST Channel, when will it air?
- FAST Channels create programming schedules that are constantly updated and refreshed. Since we are not able to identify the exact airtime, we recommend you search the Channel.
- To do so, you can click the Channels tab, navigate to the Channel you're looking for, and review the "Finding Your Title" and "How to Watch" sections to learn how to access the FAST Channel.
- FAST Channels create programming schedules that are constantly updated and refreshed. Since we are not able to identify the exact airtime, we recommend you search the Channel.