The Power of FAST Channels: Unlocking Reach, Revenue, and Engagement

Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) is transforming the streaming industry, offering an accessible and scalable way for businesses, content creators, and media brands to distribute content, engage viewers, and drive ad-based revenue.

The demand for FAST channels is skyrocketing. According to TBI Vision, FAST channel revenues in the U.S. alone are projected to hit $12 billion by 2027. Meanwhile, Statista predicts nearly 80 million U.S. viewers will be watching FAST channels by 2027.

For businesses, the opportunity is clear: launching a FAST channel means reaching a massive audience, increasing engagement, and unlocking monetization opportunities—without requiring viewers to pay a dime.

But what exactly are FAST channels, and how can brands leverage them for success?

What Are FAST Channels?

FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels are linear streaming channels that operate much like traditional TV—but delivered entirely over the internet via smart TVs, connected TV (CTV) devices, and OTT platforms.

The key difference? They’re free for viewers. Instead of relying on subscriptions, FAST channels are supported by advertising revenue, allowing content providers to monetize their programming while reaching a broader audience.

Today, leading media giants are investing heavily in FAST:

• ViacomCBS acquired Pluto TV – Pluto TV
• Fox bought Tubi – Tubi
• Amazon launched Freevee – Amazon Freevee
• Roku introduced The Roku Channel – The Roku Channel

This surge in investment proves one thing—FAST isn’t just a trend. It’s the future of streaming.

How FAST Channels Work

FAST channels offer a turnkey solution for content owners looking to distribute and monetize their programming efficiently. The process includes:

1. Content Curation

FAST platforms curate content into linear, always-on channels featuring:

• Movies & TV shows – Classic hits, niche genres, and specialty content
• News & sports – Live and pre-recorded coverage of major events
• Lifestyle & special interest content – Cooking, travel, fitness, and more

According to Whip Media, 71% of FAST viewers watch movies, while 65% watch reruns of classic TV series—making FAST channels a powerful tool for reviving old favorites and monetizing evergreen content.

2. Ad Integration

FAST channels generate revenue entirely from advertising. Unlike traditional TV, these platforms leverage advanced ad tech, allowing advertisers to serve targeted, personalized ads based on viewer demographics and behavior.

This targeted approach has fueled explosive growth in CTV advertising, with U.S. CTV ad spending projected to hit $30 billion by 2026, up from $18.9 billion in 2025.

3. Scheduling & Programming

Unlike AVOD platforms, which offer on-demand viewing, FAST channels follow a fixed schedule. Viewers tune in at specific times, just like traditional cable TV, removing the friction of having to choose what to watch.

This format solves one of the biggest pain points of modern streaming: choice paralysis.

• A Nielsen study found that 70% of viewers spend over 10 minutes trying to decide what to watch. (Nielsen)
• 12% take more than 20 minutes, leading to frustration and decision fatigue.

FAST channels eliminate this issue by offering a passive, lean-back experience, where users can simply tune in and start watching.

4. Distribution

FAST channels are widely accessible across smart TVs, CTV devices, mobile apps, and OTT platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, and Xumo.

By partnering with OTT services, content owners can quickly scale their audience while leveraging built-in ad monetization tools.

Why Businesses Should Consider FAST Channels

Whether you’re a media company, brand, or independent creator, launching a FAST channel presents significant advantages:

1. Free Content = More Viewers

Subscription fatigue is real.

• 47% of U.S. households now subscribe to four or more streaming services (Deloitte).
• As subscription costs rise, viewers are actively seeking free, ad-supported alternatives.

FAST channels provide a frictionless way for audiences to access content—without the need for costly subscriptions.

2. A New Revenue Stream Through Advertising

The ad-supported streaming model is proving to be incredibly lucrative:

• The global FAST market is expected to reach $9.06 billion by 2024 (Statista).
• 78% of FAST viewers say they are watching the same or more ad-supported content than last year (Whip Media).

For brands and content owners, FAST channels present a low-cost, high-reward monetization strategy.

3. Engagement Without the Subscription Wall

Unlike traditional SVOD (Subscription Video On Demand) models, FAST channels remove entry barriers, making content widely accessible.

This accessibility:

• Expands audience reach
• Increases engagement time
• Drives brand visibility across multiple devices

4. Solving the “Too Many Choices” Problem

The explosion of streaming platforms has led to content fragmentation, forcing consumers to juggle multiple subscriptions.

FAST channels simplify the experience:

• Viewers can tune in instantly, rather than browsing endlessly.
• Pre-programmed content reduces frustration and improves user satisfaction.
• Studies show viewership spikes on weekdays, as users prefer passive content during work breaks.

FAST vs. AVOD: What’s the Difference?

FAST and AVOD (Ad-Supported Video on Demand) both rely on advertising revenue, but they serve different purposes:

Both models generate revenue from ads, but FAST offers a more structured, TV-like experience, which appeals to audiences looking for seamless entertainment without decision fatigue.

Final Thoughts: FAST is the Future

The rise of FAST channels marks a fundamental shift in the streaming industry.

With zero subscription fees, ad-driven monetization, and broad audience reach, FAST provides businesses and content owners with an unprecedented opportunity to scale their brand and revenue.

At On The Spot Media, we help brands build, launch, and manage FAST channels with seamless content delivery and advanced ad integration.

Ready to explore the future of streaming? Let’s connect.