FAST (Streaming)
FAST is an initialism for “free, ad-supported streaming television.” It can refer to a platform that offers free access to streaming television, or streaming channels that are available for free with advertising. FAST services that offer on-demand content are also known as ad-supported video on-demand (AVOD) platforms. Examples of FAST platforms include Pluto TV (Paramount), Xumo Play (Comcast, Charter), Tubi (Fox Corporation) and Local Now (Allen Media Group).
Free streaming use rises in 2024, but users express confusion over choices
Entertainment and news channels prove popular with streamers; many lament the sheer number of options and platforms available.
Prime Video integrates free PBS streams, no membership needed
Local PBS member stations and national programming feeds like PBS Kids are now available to stream for free through Amazon's service Prime Video.
Roku gets exclusive streaming rights to X Games
Roku has landed the exclusive U.S. distribution rights to X Games Aspen and a forthcoming X Games summer event.
TV5 Monde launches first FAST channel on Sling Freestream
TV5 Monde and Sling TV have deepened their partnership with the launch of a new FAST channel called TV5 Monde Voyage.
PBS to offer local TV streams through Amazon’s Prime Video
The public broadcaster is also launching two new FAST channels exclusively through Prime Video, and will debut pop-up streams over time.
DirecTV to bring “pause ads” tech to FAST platform MyFree DirecTV
The feature, which activates when live or on-demand content is paused, earned DirecTV a Tech Emmy earlier this year.
Three years on, Fox Weather is attracting viewers — and proving the doubters wrong
In an exclusive interview with The Desk, Fox Weather President Sharri Berg discusses the talent, the tech and the storytelling that makes the channel stand out from the rest.
LG launches “News Hub” on FAST service LG Channels
LG has debuted a new content hub on its free streaming TV service, LG Channels.
CNN launches Spanish-language FAST channel on Amazon services
CNN has launched "CNN Xpress," a new FAST channel that offers a curated selection of Spanish-language news clips from CNN en Español.
Rakuten TV unveils enterprise service to help launch FAST channels
Rakuten TV will launch a new tool suite that allows content owners to easily spin up FAST channels and apps.
Jim Rome brings sports radio show to streaming TV
The sports broadcaster partnered with A+E Networks and Range Digital Ventures to bring the Jim Rome Show to Freevee, Samsung TV Plus and other FAST platforms.
DirecTV to launch free streaming service in November
DirecTV will launch a no-cost version of its service that includes dozens of free, ad-supported streaming channels and content.