Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST)
FAST "” free ad-supported streaming television "” delivers linear-style channels over the internet at no cost to viewers, monetized entirely through advertising.
Key takeaways
- FAST offers free, linear-style channels streamed over the internet.
- It is fully ad-supported "” no subscription "” which drives high ad supply.
- Its linear scheduling recreates the channel-surfing experience digitally.
- Major platforms include Pluto TV, Tubi, Roku Channel, and Samsung TV Plus.
Linear feel, digital delivery
FAST recreates the scheduled-channel experience "” you tune into a stream already in progress "” but delivers it over the internet with digital ad insertion. That format familiarity drives long viewing sessions and generous ad loads, making FAST a fast-growing source of CTV supply.
Why FAST matters to buyers
FAST inventory is abundant and addressable, offering scaled reach into cord-cutter and cord-never households. Its challenge is content and audience transparency: buyers need clear channel-level and genre-level signals to target well and avoid low-quality supply.
| Cost to viewer | Free |
|---|---|
| Monetization | Advertising only |
| Format | Linear-style channels + digital ad insertion |
| Examples | Pluto TV, Tubi, Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between FAST and AVOD?
FAST delivers linear-style channels you tune into mid-stream; AVOD is on-demand, ad-supported content you select and play. Both are free and ad-funded, but the viewing experience differs.
Why is FAST growing so quickly?
It's free for viewers, familiar in format, and creates abundant addressable ad supply, which attracts both cord-cutters and advertisers seeking scaled CTV reach.