How free streaming is transforming television advertising, creating new opportunities for advertisers and reshaping the global Connected TV ecosystem.
For decades, television advertising was relatively straightforward. Broadcasters controlled their programming, advertisers purchased commercial breaks, and audiences watched scheduled content on traditional television sets.
Today, the television landscape looks fundamentally different.
Millions of viewers worldwide are moving away from traditional linear television and increasingly consuming video content through internet-connected televisions, streaming applications, mobile devices and digital platforms.
While subscription-based streaming services initially dominated this transition, another model has rapidly gained importance: free, advertising-supported streaming.
Instead of paying monthly subscription fees, consumers can access movies, television series, documentaries, news, sports and entertainment without paying for the content. In exchange, advertisements are displayed before, during or occasionally after the programming.
This model has created a rapidly expanding ecosystem of streaming applications, broadcasters, technology providers and content publishers.
It has also created significant opportunities for advertisers.
Through programmatic advertising technology, brands can potentially reach audiences watching streaming content across different devices, applications and countries, while benefiting from targeting, reporting and campaign optimization capabilities that traditional television advertising generally cannot provide to the same degree.
At Targetoo, we have spent more than 15 years working with programmatic advertising technology, including conventional display advertising, Connected TV (CTV), Digital Out-of-Home (DOOH) and location-based advertising.
In this article, we explore the global ecosystem of free, advertising-supported streaming platforms, explain the technologies behind them, and identify many of the applications and publishers shaping the future of television advertising.
FAST & AVOD Streaming Services: A Global Guide
Explore the global ecosystem of Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST) and Advertising-Based Video on Demand (AVOD). Discover streaming platforms, regional publishers, Connected TV advertising opportunities, programmatic infrastructure and the future of free streaming.
01What Are FAST and AVOD Streaming Services?
Although FAST and AVOD are frequently mentioned together, they represent two different approaches to delivering free video content.
Both models typically rely on advertising revenue rather than mandatory subscription payments.
FAST: Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television
FAST stands for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television.
FAST services generally offer scheduled television channels delivered through an internet connection.
The viewing experience resembles traditional television: users select a channel and watch whatever is currently being broadcast.
The difference is that the content is streamed through internet-connected devices rather than conventional terrestrial, satellite or cable television infrastructure.
Examples of FAST services include:
- Pluto TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- The Roku Channel
- Xumo Play
- Sling Freestream
- TCLtv+
- Plex
- DistroTV
FAST platforms can offer hundreds of channels covering movies, television series, documentaries, sports, news, lifestyle, music and specialized interests.
Some channels focus on specific genres, while others are dedicated to a single television series, entertainment franchise or content library.
Advertisements are inserted into the streaming experience, allowing the platform and participating content publishers to generate revenue.
For viewers, the attraction is straightforward: free television without a traditional television subscription.
For advertisers, FAST introduces the possibility of reaching television audiences through digital advertising infrastructure.
AVOD: Advertising-Based Video on Demand
AVOD stands for Advertising-Based Video on Demand.
Unlike FAST, AVOD allows viewers to select specific content and watch it whenever they want.
Instead of choosing a scheduled television channel, users browse a library of movies, episodes, documentaries or other programming.
Advertisements support access to the content.
Examples of AVOD services include:
- Tubi
- Plex
- Pluto TV
- Rakuten TV
- Fawesome
- FilmRise
- ITVX
- Channel 4
- TF1+
- 7plus
- 9Now
Many modern streaming platforms combine FAST and AVOD within the same application.
For example, users may be able to switch between scheduled television channels and an on-demand movie library without leaving the application.
Hybrid Streaming Platforms
Not every streaming service fits neatly into one category.
Some platforms combine several business models:
- FAST: Free scheduled television channels supported by advertising.
- AVOD: Free on-demand programming supported by advertising.
- SVOD: Subscription Video on Demand, where users pay for access.
- Hybrid AVOD/SVOD: Platforms combining free advertising-supported content with paid subscription options.
- Broadcaster VOD: Streaming services operated by traditional television broadcasters, often providing free programming supported by advertising, public funding or a combination of revenue sources.
This distinction matters because a streaming application can offer advertising opportunities without necessarily making all its content available through programmatic advertising exchanges.
Similarly, some public broadcasters provide free streaming without operating a conventional commercial advertising model.
02Why Free Streaming Is Becoming Increasingly Important
The growth of free streaming is being driven by several developments occurring simultaneously.
Subscription Fatigue
Consumers now have access to an enormous number of paid streaming services.
Maintaining subscriptions to several platforms can become expensive.
Free streaming services provide an alternative, particularly for viewers who are comfortable watching occasional advertisements in exchange for free access.
The Expansion of Smart TVs
Modern televisions increasingly arrive with streaming applications and internet connectivity built in.
Manufacturers such as Samsung, LG, TCL and Hisense have developed extensive connected television ecosystems.
In many cases, viewers can access free streaming channels immediately after setting up their televisions.
This significantly reduces the barriers to discovering FAST content.
Increasing Content Availability
Streaming platforms can license existing television series, films, documentaries and specialized programming.
Content owners can generate additional revenue by distributing programming through FAST channels or advertising-supported libraries.
A single content publisher may distribute programming through several streaming platforms simultaneously.
Better Advertising Technology
Traditional television advertising has historically relied heavily on broad audience estimates, program schedules and predetermined commercial placements.
Connected TV advertising introduces additional possibilities.
Depending on the platform, available data, applicable privacy laws and advertising infrastructure, advertisers may be able to use:
- Geographic targeting
- Contextual targeting
- Device-level information
- Audience segmentation
- Frequency management
- Campaign pacing
- Creative optimization
- Performance reporting
- Cross-channel campaign coordination
These capabilities make advertising-supported streaming particularly interesting for brands seeking the reach of television combined with aspects of digital advertising.
03The Global FAST and AVOD Streaming Ecosystem
The global streaming market consists of several overlapping groups.
First, there are international streaming platforms such as Pluto TV, Tubi and Plex.
Second, there are smart TV manufacturers operating their own free streaming environments.
Third, traditional broadcasters increasingly distribute programming through their own streaming applications.
Fourth, independent content publishers create FAST channels and distribute them through several platforms.
Finally, regional streaming applications serve audiences in specific countries, languages or cultural markets.
The result is an exceptionally diverse global ecosystem.
Below, we explore many of the most relevant streaming applications and publishers by region.
04Major International FAST and AVOD Streaming Platforms
The following platforms represent important participants in the international free streaming landscape.
| Streaming Platform | Primary Markets | Streaming Model |
|---|---|---|
| Pluto TV | North America, Europe, Latin America | FAST and AVOD |
| Tubi | United States and selected international markets | FAST and AVOD |
| Samsung TV Plus | Multiple international markets | FAST |
| LG Channels | Multiple international markets | FAST |
| The Roku Channel | United States and selected international markets | FAST and AVOD |
| Plex | International | FAST and AVOD |
| Rakuten TV | Europe | FAST and AVOD |
| Xumo Play | United States | FAST and AVOD |
| Sling Freestream | United States | FAST |
| VIZIO WatchFree+ | United States | FAST |
| TCLtv+ | United States and selected markets | FAST |
| VIDAA ecosystem | International | Smart TV streaming ecosystem |
| Whale TV+ | International | FAST |
| DistroTV | International | FAST |
| Fawesome | United States and selected markets | AVOD |
| FilmRise | United States and international distribution | FAST and AVOD content |
| Local Now | United States | FAST |
| Zeam | United States | Local television streaming |
| STIRR | United States | FAST |
| Mometu | United States | AVOD |
| FlixHouse | United States and selected markets | FAST and AVOD |
| Shout! TV | United States | FAST and AVOD |
| Midnight Pulp | United States | AVOD |
| RetroCrush | United States | Anime streaming |
| Haystack News | International | News streaming |
| Google TV | Selected markets | Streaming aggregation and FAST discovery |
| ViX | United States and Latin America | Hybrid FAST and AVOD |
These services do not all operate in the same way.
Some are independent streaming applications, others are integrated into smart TV operating systems, and several function as content distributors or aggregation environments.
Nevertheless, they illustrate the enormous diversity of the advertising-supported television market.
Pluto TV
Pluto TV is one of the best-known FAST platforms. It offers scheduled streaming channels alongside on-demand programming in multiple markets. Its content includes movies, television series, entertainment, news and specialized channels.
For advertisers, Pluto TV represents an example of how traditional television-style viewing can be delivered through internet-connected devices.
Tubi
Tubi is a major advertising-supported streaming platform, particularly in North America. Its offering includes movies, television series and live streaming channels.
The platform demonstrates the commercial potential of providing extensive entertainment libraries without requiring a conventional subscription.
Samsung TV Plus
Samsung TV Plus is integrated into compatible Samsung smart televisions and other supported devices.
Rather than requiring consumers to discover and install an entirely separate application, Samsung can introduce free television directly through its device ecosystem.
This gives smart TV manufacturers an important role in streaming content distribution.
LG Channels
LG Channels follows a similar principle, making free streaming content available through compatible LG televisions.
Its international distribution highlights the growing importance of television manufacturers as participants in the advertising-supported streaming market.
Plex
Plex combines personal media functionality with free streaming television channels and on-demand entertainment.
Its availability across different devices and operating systems makes it an interesting example of a platform that extends beyond a single television manufacturer.
Rakuten TV
Rakuten TV is particularly relevant to the European streaming market.
Its advertising-supported offering includes free movies, entertainment and FAST channels, alongside other commercial viewing options.
The Roku Channel
The Roku Channel offers free streaming content across supported devices and markets.
It illustrates how connected television operating systems can become important advertising environments in their own right.
05Free and Advertising-Supported Streaming in Europe
Europe is one of the most diverse streaming markets worldwide.
Unlike markets dominated by a relatively small number of national television networks, Europe consists of numerous countries, languages, regulatory environments and broadcaster ecosystems.
This creates a fragmented but commercially interesting landscape.
International FAST platforms operate alongside national broadcasters, regional television networks and independent streaming applications.
For advertisers, this creates opportunities to combine international reach with locally relevant programming.
Netherlands
The Netherlands has a developed digital advertising market and several important broadcaster streaming services.
Relevant platforms include:
- KIJK
- NPO Start
- RTL's streaming ecosystem
- Pluto TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
- Rakuten TV
KIJK is particularly relevant as a commercial broadcaster streaming service.
NPO Start provides access to public broadcasting content, although public broadcaster advertising arrangements differ from conventional commercial AVOD models.
Belgium
Belgium's streaming market is divided across Dutch-speaking and French-speaking audiences.
Important services include:
- VTM GO
- GoPlay
- VRT MAX
- RTL play
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Pluto TV
- Plex
Commercial broadcaster applications such as VTM GO and GoPlay are especially relevant when evaluating local streaming advertising opportunities.
Germany
Germany represents one of Europe's most important Connected TV advertising markets.
Relevant platforms include:
- Joyn
- RTL+
- waipu.tv
- Zattoo
- ARD Mediathek
- ZDF streaming services
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Pluto TV
- Rakuten TV
- Plex
Joyn is particularly interesting because it combines free streaming television and on-demand content.
Germany also has a substantial smart TV audience, making manufacturer-operated FAST services relevant to the market.
France
France has a strong domestic broadcaster ecosystem.
Important streaming services include:
- TF1+
- M6+
- france.tv
- Molotov
- ARTE
- Pluto TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Rakuten TV
- Plex
TF1+ and M6+ are important examples of broadcaster-led streaming.
They demonstrate how established television companies are adapting their advertising businesses to internet-connected viewing environments.
Spain
Spain has a particularly interesting combination of national broadcasters, international streaming platforms and smart TV services.
Relevant applications include:
- Atresplayer
- Mediaset Infinity
- RTVE Play
- Tivify
- Pluto TV
- Rakuten TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
- YouTube
Atresplayer and Mediaset Infinity represent major commercial broadcaster ecosystems.
RTVE Play provides public broadcaster streaming services, although its commercial advertising model differs from private streaming publishers.
For advertisers targeting Spanish audiences, the combination of broadcaster streaming and international FAST applications can provide multiple approaches to CTV campaign planning.
Italy
Relevant Italian streaming publishers include:
- Mediaset Infinity
- RaiPlay
- La7
- TV8
- Pluto TV
- Rakuten TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
Mediaset Infinity is especially relevant to commercial streaming advertising.
RaiPlay is an important public broadcaster service, although its funding and advertising arrangements require separate consideration.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom has one of Europe's most established broadcaster video-on-demand markets.
Important services include:
- ITVX
- Channel 4
- 5
- U
- STV Player
- BBC iPlayer
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
ITVX, Channel 4 and 5 are particularly relevant commercial streaming publishers.
BBC iPlayer is an important free-to-access streaming service for eligible viewers, but it is not a conventional commercial AVOD platform in the UK.
Portugal
- RTP Play
- TVI Player
- OPTO SIC
- Pluto TV
- Rakuten TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
Switzerland
- Zattoo
- Teleboy
- Play Suisse
- Play SRF
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Pluto TV
Austria
- Joyn Austria
- ORF ON
- ServusTV On
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Pluto TV
Poland
- TVP VOD
- Player
- Polsat Box Go
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Pluto TV
Czech Republic and Slovakia
- iVysílání
- Prima+
- JOJ Play
- Voyo
- International FAST applications available locally
Hungary
- RTL+ Hungary
- TV2 Play
- International FAST platforms
Romania
- VOYO Romania
- AntenaPLAY
- International FAST services
Greece
- ERTFLIX
- MEGA TV streaming
- International FAST applications
Turkey
- puhutv
- tabii
- TV+
- International streaming applications
Scandinavia
Northern Europe has several established broadcaster streaming ecosystems.
- Sweden: TV4 Play and SVT Play.
- Norway: TV 2 Play and NRK TV.
- Denmark: TV 2 Play and DR TV.
- Finland: Ruutu, MTV Katsomo and Yle Areena.
These services differ in their combinations of advertising, subscriptions and public funding.
Ireland and Southeastern Europe
Additional services worth examining include:
- Ireland: RTÉ Player and Virgin Media Play.
- Croatia: HRTi.
- Serbia: RTS Planeta.
Across Europe, the commercial availability of advertising inventory varies considerably.
Not every free streaming service accepts advertising, and not every advertising-supported platform provides access through programmatic exchanges.
06North America: A Major FAST and AVOD Market
The United States has one of the most developed free streaming ecosystems.
Consumers can access numerous advertising-supported applications covering general entertainment, movies, television series, news, sports and specialized programming.
In addition to the major international platforms, important American services include:
| Streaming Service | Primary Content |
|---|---|
| Fandango at Home | Movies and selected free content |
| The CW | Television series |
| ABC | Television programming |
| NBC | Television programming |
| FOX | Television programming |
| CBS News 24/7 | News |
| ABC News Live | News |
| NBC News NOW | News |
| PBS | Documentaries and educational programming |
| PBS Kids | Children's programming |
| WeatherNation | Weather |
| AccuWeather | Weather and news |
| Cheddar News | Business news |
| Court TV | Legal and crime programming |
| Scripps News | News |
| Bloomberg Television | Financial news |
| Local Now | Local news and entertainment |
| Zeam | Local television |
| Haystack News | News aggregation |
Some broadcaster applications require television-provider authentication for certain programming, while others provide free live streams or selected episodes.
For advertisers, this distinction matters when evaluating the availability of advertising inventory.
Canada
Canada also has a substantial broadcaster streaming ecosystem.
Relevant services include:
- CBC Gem
- CTV
- Global TV
- Citytv
- TVO Today
- Pluto TV
- Tubi
- Plex
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
Canadian broadcasters often combine free programming, advertising-supported viewing and authenticated access.
07Latin America: A Growing Free Streaming Ecosystem
Latin America offers substantial potential for advertising-supported streaming.
The region combines established television broadcasters, large Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking audiences and increasing access to internet-connected devices.
Several international FAST platforms have expanded into Latin American markets.
At the same time, domestic broadcasters are developing their own streaming applications.
Mexico
Relevant platforms include:
- ViX
- Azteca UNO
- Canal Once
- Pluto TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- Plex
ViX is particularly relevant because it combines Spanish-language entertainment, television programming and different commercial access models.
Brazil
Brazil has one of the region's largest domestic television ecosystems.
Relevant streaming services include:
- Globoplay
- SBT
- PlayPlus
- Bandplay
- Pluto TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
The market includes both free and subscription-supported programming.
Argentina
- Telefe
- TV Pública
- Pluto TV
- ViX
- International FAST applications
Colombia
- Caracol TV
- RCN
- Pluto TV
- ViX
- International FAST services
Chile
- 13Go
- TVN Play
- Mega Go
- Pluto TV
- International FAST applications
Peru
- América TVGO
- Latina
- Pluto TV
- International streaming platforms
Ecuador and Panama
Additional broadcasters include:
- Ecuador: Ecuavisa.
- Panama: TVN Panamá.
For international advertisers, Latin America is particularly interesting because regional FAST services can complement local broadcaster advertising.
However, content rights, application availability and advertising access often differ between countries.
08Asia-Pacific: An Extremely Diverse Streaming Market
Asia-Pacific contains some of the world's largest digital video audiences.
However, streaming behavior varies significantly between countries.
Japan, India, South Korea, Indonesia, Australia and Southeast Asian markets each have their own major publishers and viewing habits.
Japan
Relevant services include:
- TVer
- ABEMA
- U-NEXT
- NHK streaming services
TVer and ABEMA are particularly interesting when researching advertising-supported streaming.
Other services may primarily rely on subscriptions or public funding.
South Korea
- TVING
- Wavve
- BINGE Korea
- International FAST applications
South Korea also has an important role in the development and international distribution of connected television technology.
India
India has an exceptionally large digital video market.
Relevant platforms include:
- JioHotstar
- ZEE5
- Sony LIV
- MX Player
- ShemarooMe
- Sun NXT
The market contains several different advertising and subscription models.
Free access to individual programs should not automatically be interpreted as unrestricted access to an entire streaming platform.
Indonesia
- Vidio
- RCTI+
- Vision+
- Viu
- International streaming applications
Indonesia is particularly interesting because domestic broadcasters compete alongside regional and international video services.
Malaysia
- Tonton
- RTMKlik
- Viu
- International FAST applications
Singapore
- meWATCH
- International FAST platforms
Thailand
- TrueID
- oneD
- International streaming platforms
Philippines
- iWant
- GMA Network streaming services
- International streaming applications
Vietnam
- VieON
- FPT Play
- International streaming applications
Australia
Australia has a particularly established advertising-supported broadcaster streaming market.
Major services include:
- 7plus
- 9Now
- 10 Play
- SBS On Demand
- ABC iview
- Tubi
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Plex
Commercial broadcaster streaming services are especially important in Australia.
New Zealand
- TVNZ+
- ThreeNow
- International streaming applications
The Asia-Pacific market demonstrates why a global Connected TV strategy often requires country-specific publisher research.
Streaming applications, business models and advertising availability can vary dramatically between neighboring countries.
09The Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa represent diverse streaming markets with significant differences in infrastructure, consumer preferences and advertising technology.
Middle East
Relevant services include:
- Shahid
- Dubai+
- ADtv
- Awaan
- tabii
- International FAST applications
Shahid is particularly important in Arabic-language entertainment, although its offering combines different commercial access models.
Africa
Relevant services include:
- SABC+
- eVOD
- Showmax
- Channels Television
- Citizen Digital
- AfroLandTV
Not all these services are free or primarily advertising-supported.
Nevertheless, they represent relevant publishers and streaming environments for regional market research.
In many African markets, mobile video consumption also plays an important role.
Advertisers should therefore distinguish between conventional Connected TV inventory and mobile video advertising opportunities.
10Smart TV Manufacturers Are Becoming Major Streaming Publishers
One of the most important developments in the Connected TV ecosystem is the changing role of television manufacturers.
Historically, television manufacturers primarily sold hardware.
Today, many manufacturers also operate software platforms, streaming environments, content discovery systems and advertising businesses.
This creates a direct relationship between television manufacturers and viewers.
Samsung TV Plus
Samsung TV Plus offers free streaming channels through compatible Samsung devices.
Its integration into the television ecosystem can make content discovery straightforward for consumers.
LG Channels
LG Channels provides access to free streaming content through supported LG smart televisions.
Its international presence makes it relevant to advertisers researching manufacturer-operated FAST inventory.
TCLtv+
TCLtv+ represents another example of a television manufacturer developing a streaming content environment.
VIDAA
VIDAA is a smart TV operating system and content ecosystem used across supported television devices.
It can provide access to streaming applications and content services, including advertising-supported offerings.
Importantly, VIDAA itself should not automatically be treated as a single streaming publisher.
Whale TV
Whale TV provides smart TV software and related content services.
Its ecosystem includes Whale TV+, a free streaming offering available on supported devices and markets.
VIZIO WatchFree+
VIZIO WatchFree+ provides free streaming television through compatible VIZIO devices.
Google TV
Google TV provides content discovery and streaming aggregation functionality across compatible devices.
In supported markets, its free television offering includes FAST content.
However, Google TV is also a broader operating system and discovery environment.
Why This Matters for Advertisers
Smart TV manufacturers can influence:
- Which applications are preinstalled.
- Which streaming services are recommended.
- How viewers discover content.
- Which FAST channels appear in the television interface.
- How advertising-supported programming is distributed.
- Which advertising technologies and commercial partnerships are available.
For programmatic advertisers, understanding the difference between a television manufacturer, an operating system, a streaming application and an individual content publisher is increasingly important.
11Individual FAST Channel Publishers: An Additional Advertising Ecosystem
So far, we have primarily discussed streaming applications.
However, another major category deserves attention: individual FAST channel publishers.
These companies create, own, license or distribute content channels that appear inside streaming platforms.
A single publisher may distribute several channels through multiple applications.
For example, a content owner might make its programming available through Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV, Plex and Rakuten TV.
This creates a layered ecosystem in which the platform distributing the content is not necessarily the company owning the programming.
Important FAST content publishers and channel brands include:
| Publisher or Channel Brand | Primary Content |
|---|---|
| FilmRise | Movies, crime and television |
| Vevo | Music videos |
| Love Nature | Wildlife and documentaries |
| Stingray | Music and entertainment |
| Cineverse | Movies and television |
| The Pet Collective | Animals and entertainment |
| People Are Awesome | Sports and entertainment |
| FailArmy | Comedy and entertainment |
| Bloomberg | Financial news |
| Euronews | International news |
| France 24 | International news |
| Deutsche Welle | International news |
| TV5MONDE | International programming |
| Motorvision | Automotive |
| Insight TV | Entertainment and lifestyle |
| WildEarth | Wildlife |
These publishers may offer inventory through different distribution partners.
Consequently, identifying a content publisher does not necessarily reveal which advertising exchange makes its impressions available.
This is an important consideration for advertisers seeking specific channels or content categories.
12Free Video Platforms Beyond Traditional FAST and AVOD
The broader advertising-supported video market includes several platforms that do not fit the traditional FAST or AVOD definition.
Examples include:
- YouTube
- Dailymotion
- Twitch
- Vevo
- Rumble
- Bilibili
- iQIYI
- YOUKU
- Tencent Video
- Douyin
- TikTok
These platforms offer different combinations of user-generated content, professional programming, live streaming, short-form video and on-demand entertainment.
Some also provide dedicated television applications.
However, advertisers should distinguish between general online video advertising and Connected TV advertising.
An advertisement displayed within a mobile application is not necessarily a CTV impression.
Similarly, advertising inventory on a platform's television application may be sold differently from advertising inventory on its website or mobile application.
For example, some major video platforms primarily distribute advertising through their own buying systems rather than through unrestricted third-party programmatic exchanges.
This distinction is essential when evaluating inventory availability.
13How Programmatic Advertising Works Within FAST and AVOD
Connected TV advertising combines elements of traditional television with digital advertising technology.
When a viewer watches advertising-supported streaming content, the platform may identify an opportunity to display an advertisement.
Depending on the technical implementation, this opportunity can be made available through programmatic advertising infrastructure.
A simplified process looks like this:
- A viewer opens a streaming application.
The viewer selects a FAST channel or on-demand program. - An advertising opportunity becomes available.
The streaming application or its advertising technology identifies an available advertising placement. - An advertising request is generated.
Information about the advertising opportunity may be passed through the publisher's advertising infrastructure. - The opportunity is evaluated.
Eligible advertisers may participate in an auction or another programmatic transaction. - An advertisement is selected.
The winning or otherwise selected advertisement is delivered according to the publisher's technical requirements. - The advertisement is displayed.
The viewer sees the advertisement as part of the streaming experience. - Reporting information is generated.
Depending on the platform and integration, advertisers may receive information about impressions, delivery, completion rates and other available metrics.
Not every FAST or AVOD platform uses the same advertising infrastructure.
Some rely on private advertising arrangements, while others support programmatic buying through supply-side platforms and exchanges.
14Understanding CTV App Bundle IDs and Publisher Identification
For advertisers and programmatic advertising specialists, identifying the correct streaming application is an important technical consideration.
One common identifier is the app bundle ID.
An app bundle ID identifies an application within a particular operating system or application ecosystem.
However, identifiers may differ between platforms.
The same streaming service may have different application identifiers for:
- Samsung Smart TV
- LG Smart TV
- Roku
- Amazon Fire TV
- Android TV
- Google TV
- Apple TV
- Mobile operating systems
This means that identifying a streaming brand is not always sufficient to construct an accurate advertising whitelist.
Other relevant information may include:
- Publisher ID: Identifies the publisher within an advertising exchange.
- Application identifier: Identifies the application associated with an advertising opportunity.
- Channel identifier: May identify an individual FAST channel.
- Supply-side platform: The technology provider making advertising opportunities available.
- Device information: Information about the connected television or streaming device, subject to applicable privacy requirements.
- Content metadata: Information about the programming, such as genre, language or content classification.
- Advertising placement information: Details about the available advertising opportunity.
The completeness and reliability of these signals vary between publishers and exchanges.
For advertisers seeking transparent inventory selection, accurate publisher and application identification is particularly valuable.
15Can Advertisers Target Specific FAST Channels?
In some cases, yes.
However, the available targeting capabilities depend on the publisher, advertising exchange and technical integration.
Advertisers may be able to select inventory based on:
- Streaming application
- Publisher
- Device type
- Geographic location
- Content genre
- Language
- Advertising marketplace
- Private marketplace agreements
- Other available contextual information
Individual FAST channel targeting is not universally supported.
Some advertising opportunities provide detailed content metadata, while others offer more limited information.
Advertisers should therefore distinguish between targeting a streaming application and targeting a particular channel inside that application.
For example, selecting a major FAST application does not necessarily guarantee that advertisements will appear exclusively within a specific news, sports or entertainment channel.
16The Advantages of CTV Advertising for Brands
Free, advertising-supported streaming creates several potential advantages for advertisers.
Television-Sized Creative
Connected TV advertising generally allows brands to deliver video advertisements on large television screens.
This can provide an immersive viewing experience compared with smaller digital advertising formats.
Geographic Targeting
Depending on available inventory and data, campaigns can target particular countries, regions or other geographic areas.
This can be useful for both international advertisers and businesses operating in specific markets.
Contextual Relevance
Where supported, advertisers can select programming environments or content categories relevant to their campaigns.
For example, an automotive brand may prefer automotive or lifestyle programming.
Flexible Campaign Budgets
Programmatic CTV buying can offer more flexible campaign planning than some traditional television advertising arrangements.
However, minimum budgets and transaction requirements vary between publishers and marketplaces.
Reporting and Optimization
CTV advertising can provide digital campaign reporting, including metrics such as:
- Impressions
- Reach estimates
- Video completion rates
- Geographic delivery
- Device categories
- Frequency, where measurable
- Campaign expenditure
Additional measurement capabilities may be available depending on the technology and data involved.
Cross-Channel Advertising Opportunities
CTV can also form part of a broader advertising strategy incorporating conventional display advertising, mobile advertising and Digital Out-of-Home.
This creates opportunities for coordinated campaign planning across different digital environments.
17Combining Connected TV, Display Advertising and Digital Out-of-Home
At Targetoo, we believe one of the most interesting developments in programmatic advertising is the ability to coordinate campaigns across different digital channels.
Rather than treating television, mobile advertising and outdoor advertising as entirely separate environments, advertisers can increasingly plan campaigns through connected advertising technologies.
Consider a hypothetical automotive campaign.
A manufacturer wants to promote a new vehicle across a particular region.
The campaign could incorporate:
- Connected TV: Video advertisements displayed through eligible streaming applications.
- Conventional Display: Banner advertisements appearing across websites and mobile applications.
- Digital Out-of-Home: Advertisements displayed on digital screens in relevant public environments.
- Location-Based Advertising: Advertising targeted to selected geographic areas, where supported and legally permitted.
- Campaign Measurement: Analysis of delivery and available performance indicators across participating channels.
The objective is to create a coordinated advertising strategy.
Depending on available identifiers, publisher integrations, consent and privacy requirements, some platforms may also support cross-device audience coordination or frequency management.
However, advertisers should not assume that an individual viewer can always be identified or reached across all these environments.
CTV, mobile devices and DOOH screens have different identification and measurement characteristics.
Nevertheless, the ability to manage these channels through a coordinated programmatic strategy represents an important development for advertisers.
18Challenges in the Global FAST and AVOD Advertising Market
Despite its potential, the FAST and AVOD ecosystem presents several challenges.
Fragmented Inventory
Streaming inventory is distributed across numerous platforms, applications, publishers and technology providers.
A global advertising campaign may therefore involve multiple supply sources.
Different Advertising Technologies
Publishers do not all use identical advertising infrastructure.
Some support open programmatic auctions, while others primarily rely on private marketplaces or direct commercial relationships.
Application Identification
The same streaming service may use different identifiers across operating systems and devices.
This complicates publisher whitelisting and inventory analysis.
Transparency
Advertisers may not always receive complete information about the application, channel or content associated with an impression.
Inventory transparency is therefore an important consideration when selecting advertising partners.
Geographic Availability
A streaming application may operate in one country but not another.
Content libraries, channel lineups and advertising arrangements can also differ between markets.
Advertising Fraud and Quality
As with other forms of digital advertising, advertisers should consider invalid traffic, application spoofing, inventory misrepresentation and other quality risks.
Recognized industry standards, appropriate supply-chain transparency and independent verification can help mitigate these concerns.
Privacy and Data Protection
CTV advertising must comply with applicable privacy and data protection laws.
Depending on the jurisdiction and advertising activity, these may include the GDPR in Europe and other national or regional privacy frameworks.
Advertisers should ensure that audience targeting, data processing and measurement practices have an appropriate legal basis.
19What Is the Difference Between a Streaming Platform and a Streaming Publisher?
This is one of the most important distinctions in the global CTV ecosystem.
A streaming platform provides the environment through which viewers access content.
Examples include Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV and Plex.
A content publisher owns, licenses, produces or distributes the programming.
Examples include FilmRise, Vevo and Love Nature.
A FAST channel is a scheduled stream of programming that may be distributed through one or more platforms.
A smart TV operating system provides the software environment through which applications and content services are accessed.
A supply-side platform, or SSP, helps publishers make advertising opportunities available to buyers.
A demand-side platform, or DSP, enables advertisers to evaluate and purchase eligible advertising opportunities.
These different participants can be involved in delivering a single streaming advertisement.
Example
A consumer watches a documentary channel through a FAST application installed on a smart television.
The television manufacturer, operating system provider, streaming platform, content publisher and advertising technology providers may all represent different companies.
Understanding these relationships helps advertisers evaluate where their advertising expenditure is going.
20The Future of Free, Advertising-Supported Streaming
The growth of FAST and AVOD reflects a broader transformation in television consumption.
Consumers increasingly expect flexible access to entertainment.
At the same time, many viewers remain willing to watch advertising when it allows them to access content without paying subscription fees.
This creates opportunities for streaming platforms, content owners and advertisers.
Several developments are likely to shape the market.
More FAST Channels
Content owners can use FAST distribution to generate additional revenue from existing programming libraries.
This encourages the development of specialized channels focused on particular genres, languages and audiences.
Greater Smart TV Integration
Television manufacturers are likely to continue developing integrated streaming environments.
Content discovery, operating system interfaces and advertising services may become increasingly interconnected.
More Localized Content
Regional streaming platforms and broadcasters can provide programming tailored to specific countries and languages.
This creates opportunities for advertisers seeking locally relevant television audiences.
Improved Programmatic Infrastructure
As the market develops, advertisers will continue seeking better inventory identification, reporting and transaction transparency.
Increased Cross-Channel Coordination
Connected TV advertising is becoming part of broader digital advertising strategies.
Brands increasingly want to coordinate television, online video, conventional display advertising and Digital Out-of-Home.
Greater Attention to Measurement
Advertisers will continue demanding reliable information about campaign delivery and performance.
Reach, frequency, completion rates and incremental outcomes will remain important areas of development.
21How Targetoo Helps Advertisers Access the Connected TV Ecosystem
Targetoo is an international programmatic advertising company with more than 15 years of experience in digital advertising technology.
Our advertising solutions include:
Connected TV Advertising
Launch video advertising campaigns across eligible Connected TV inventory, subject to publisher and market availability.
Conventional Display Advertising
Reach audiences through websites, mobile applications and other supported digital environments.
Digital Out-of-Home Advertising
Deliver advertisements through eligible digital outdoor advertising screens.
Location-Based Advertising
Use supported geographic targeting capabilities to reach relevant audiences in selected locations.
Cross-Channel Campaign Strategies
Coordinate advertising activity across multiple digital channels through a unified programmatic approach.
Self-Service Advertising
Advertisers who prefer direct campaign control can manage eligible campaigns through our self-service solutions.
Managed Advertising
Our experienced team can manage campaigns for advertisers who prefer professional support.
White-Label DSP Solutions
Agencies and advertising businesses can explore branded programmatic advertising environments adapted to their commercial requirements.
Our objective is to make advanced programmatic advertising technology accessible to advertisers of different sizes, while maintaining a strong focus on transparency, flexibility and professional support.
22Frequently Asked Questions About FAST and AVOD
FAST stands for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television. It describes free television channels delivered through an internet connection and financed primarily through advertising.
AVOD stands for Advertising-Based Video on Demand. It allows users to watch selected video content for free in exchange for viewing advertisements.
FAST generally provides scheduled television channels, while AVOD allows viewers to select individual programs or movies on demand.
Most FAST services provide their core streaming channels without requiring a paid subscription. However, availability and access conditions can vary between platforms and countries.
Advertising revenue allows streaming platforms and content publishers to generate income without charging every viewer a subscription fee.
Yes. Samsung TV Plus is an example of a manufacturer-operated FAST streaming service.
Pluto TV offers free advertising-supported streaming channels and on-demand content in supported markets.
Tubi is primarily an advertising-supported streaming service that provides free access to movies, television series and other programming in supported markets.
Rakuten TV offers free advertising-supported content in supported European markets, alongside other viewing and payment options.
YouTube is primarily an online video platform rather than a conventional FAST service. However, it offers live streaming and television viewing experiences, and some of its content overlaps with the broader advertising-supported streaming ecosystem.
Yes, many FAST platforms offer advertising opportunities. However, access may be provided through direct sales, private marketplaces, programmatic exchanges or other commercial arrangements.
Many FAST publishers support programmatic advertising, although the available buying mechanisms vary.
In some cases, yes. Application-level targeting depends on the identifiers and inventory controls made available by publishers and advertising exchanges.
Sometimes. Channel-level targeting requires appropriate publisher information and supported advertising infrastructure.
Yes, geographic targeting is supported across many CTV advertising environments, although precision and availability vary.
Yes. CTV and mobile advertising can be coordinated as part of a broader campaign strategy. Cross-device audience matching requires suitable technology, permitted data and compliance with applicable privacy laws.
Yes. Advertisers can coordinate CTV and DOOH campaigns through programmatic advertising strategies, although individual-level synchronization is not universally available.
An app bundle ID is an identifier associated with an application within a particular device or operating system ecosystem.
They can help advertisers and advertising technology providers identify applications and evaluate available inventory.
No. Some streaming platforms sell advertising directly or through restricted commercial arrangements. Others make inventory available through programmatic marketplaces.
Not exactly. FAST advertising appears within television-style programming but may use digital advertising technologies for buying, delivery and reporting.
Video advertisements are common, including commercials displayed before or during programming. Specific formats depend on the streaming application and publisher.
Yes. Connected TV can be used for international advertising campaigns, subject to inventory availability, geographic restrictions and publisher access.
It can be. Programmatic buying may provide flexible budget options, although minimum requirements depend on the available inventory and commercial arrangements.
FAST platforms operate across numerous countries in North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia-Pacific and other regions. Availability varies between services.
Examples include Samsung, LG, TCL and VIZIO, alongside other manufacturers and smart TV ecosystems.
FAST is likely to remain an important component of the Connected TV market as publishers, device manufacturers and advertisers continue developing advertising-supported streaming services.
Conclusion: Free Streaming Is Reshaping the Global Television Advertising Market
The global streaming industry is no longer defined exclusively by subscription services.
Free, advertising-supported streaming has become an important part of how audiences discover and consume television programming.
International platforms such as Pluto TV, Tubi, Plex and Rakuten TV operate alongside manufacturer-supported services such as Samsung TV Plus, LG Channels and TCLtv+.
At the same time, traditional broadcasters are expanding their digital streaming offerings, while independent content publishers distribute specialized FAST channels across multiple platforms.
For advertisers, this creates an increasingly diverse television advertising ecosystem.
However, successful Connected TV advertising requires more than simply identifying popular streaming applications.
Advertisers must understand publisher relationships, geographic availability, advertising infrastructure, inventory transparency, technical identifiers and the differences between FAST, AVOD and other streaming models.
The opportunities are substantial, but so is the importance of selecting the right technology and advertising strategy.
At Targetoo, we help advertisers navigate the evolving programmatic advertising landscape.
Whether your objective is to launch a Connected TV campaign, coordinate advertising across display and DOOH, or explore a self-service or white-label programmatic advertising solution, our team can help you evaluate the available options.
Interested in Connected TV Advertising?
Discover how Targetoo can help your business reach audiences through programmatic Connected TV, conventional display and Digital Out-of-Home advertising.
Visit Targetoo.com or contact contact@targetoo.com to discuss your next campaign.