How to launch a FAST channel

What are FAST channels?

Free Ad-supported Streaming TV, aka FAST, is a modern linear distribution model that delivers pre-scheduled free content to mass audiences through connected devices. It mimics the experience of cable TV viewing, where programs run on fixed schedules with ad breaks.

FAST is sometimes confused with Advertising-supported Video On Demand (AVOD). The key difference lies in how content is delivered. FAST channels offer curated, linear programming with set schedules discovered through a program guide, similar to cable TV. AVOD platforms, also ad-supported, offer an on-demand viewing experience allowing viewers to select what they want to watch.

In short, FAST channels provide a lean-back viewing experience, while AVOD caters to viewers seeking more control over their content choices.

Why is FAST so popular?

Amagi Global FAST Report Edition 13 shows stable double-digit growth in global ad impressions (41%) and Hours Of Viewing (HOV) (38%), highlighting the popularity of FAST channels and services worldwide. What makes FAST so popular? Here are some key reasons why:

• Brings back the classic TV experience — for free
  FAST  offers free access to premium content, making it an appealing alternative for budget-conscious viewers. With only occasional ads and no subscription fees, it delivers a lean-back, linear TV experience, providing a continuous, curated entertainment flow without the decision fatigue common with on-demand platforms.
  
  
• FAST  has something for everyone
  FAST channels cater to niche audiences with specialized content, from classic movies and sports to documentaries and lifestyle programming, thus offering unique experiences. They are easily accessible across connected devices like smart TVs, streaming platforms (Roku, Samsung TV Plus, Pluto TV), and mobile apps, providing viewers flexibility and convenience.
  
  
• A commitment-free, plug-and-play experience
  FAST channels deliver a seamless viewing experience without needing subscriptions, logins, or payments. This hassle-free access appeals to casual viewers and faster time to view since there are no signups required, encouraging broader audience engagement.

READ: Metadata best practices for FAST programming

What are the benefits of FAST channels?

FAST offers win-win opportunities to content owners, advertisers, and streaming platforms. Let’s have a look.

• Content owners:

• Monetize existing content libraries with ad-based models without requiring subscriptions.
• Revive legacy content and make older shows, movies, or niche content reach new audiences on FAST services.
• List their channels on multiple FAST services (Roku, Pluto TV, Samsung TV Plus), expanding their reach.
• FAST allows for pop-up channels, live sports, and special marathons, increasing content value.

• Streaming platforms:

• • Curated, scheduled programming encourages longer viewing sessions, keeping users within the platform ecosystem.
  • Offering a variety of niche content channels attracts a broad audience, from sports fans to movie buffs.
  • Benefits from ad partnerships through revenue-sharing models with content owners and advertisers.

• Advertisers

• Personalized, non-skippable ads are inserted seamlessly, maximizing relevance and engagement.
• FAST channels cater to specific interests, allowing brands to reach highly targeted demographics.
• The linear, lean-back experience keeps viewers tuned in longer, increasing ad exposure.
• Compared to traditional TV, FAST offers more affordable advertising options with measurable results.

5 steps to launch a FAST channel for content owners

Do you, as a content owner, feel unsure about the benefits of launching a FAST channel or think it’s too complicated? Good news, we can help. You can launch a FAST channel efficiently using these five steps. 

1. Get the content strategy right
   Determine the type of content the channel will feature — movies, sports, documentaries, or niche programming. Once done, ensure it aligns with your target audience's preferences. To keep viewers engaged, plan a steady content pipeline with enough material to maintain 24/7 schedules.
   
   
2. Get content rights and licensing
   Ensure you have the proper rights to stream your content, whether through ownership, licensing agreements, or partnerships. Negotiate licensing terms that permit ad-supported distribution and explore repurposing older or niche content to attract specific audiences.
   
   
3. Select the right technology platform
   Choose a reliable playout and streaming solution, such as Amagi, to effectively manage content delivery and ad insertion. Integrate Dynamic Ad Insertion (DAI) to optimize ad revenue, and collaborate with major FAST services like Roku, Pluto TV, or Samsung TV Plus to expand your channel’s reach.
   
   
4. Define your monetization strategy
   Establish programmatic and direct ad sales to create multiple revenue streams. Leverage dynamic ad insertion for personalized, non-skippable ads and explore opportunities for sponsorships or branded content to enhance monetization.
   
   Read: How to drive effective monetization outcomes from FAST
   
   
5. Test, launch, and modify
   Thoroughly test to ensure seamless playout, video quality, and ad performance across all devices. Launch the channel with targeted promotions, including platform features and social media campaigns, and monitor analytics to track performance. Optimize content schedules and ad strategies for continuous growth.

How Amagi can help your FAST journey

With state-of-the-art, cloud-backed solutions for channel creation, content distribution, and ad monetization, Amagi simplifies launching and managing a FAST channel. Amagi also enables seamless content scheduling, real-time graphics insertion, and targeted ad placement without heavy infrastructure investments.

Sound like the right playout software for your FAST channel?

• Talk to us to learn more
• Read our latest Global FAST Report