In the shifting media landscape 2025, traditional local media—TV stations, newspapers, and radio—continue to face steep declines in viewership, ad revenue, and relevance. But a new player is stepping in to fill that void: FAST Channels.
FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) is not just a buzzword—it’s a fast-growing media model that’s giving local content a new home and audiences a new way to watch.
What Are FAST Channels?
FAST Channels are streaming TV channels that deliver scheduled, linear-style programming (like cable) but are:
- Free to watch
- Ad-supported
Available via streaming platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus, and Amazon Freevee
Think of it as traditional TV meets Netflix—but free.
Problem with Traditional Local Media
Local TV and newspapers once dominated communities, but in recent years they’ve faced:
- Shrinking ad dollars
- Aging audiences
- Declining trust
- Digital disruption from social media and streaming
This has left a massive content gap, especially for hyper-local news, community stories, and culturally relevant programming.
Statistics Explaining How FAST Channels Are Changing the Entertainment Industry!
FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) channels are rapidly transforming the entertainment industry by offering free, ad-supported streaming content in a linear format, similar to traditional TV. This model is gaining traction among viewers and advertisers alike, filling gaps left by traditional media and subscription-based streaming services.
Let’s explore some statistics that highlight the impact of FAST channels
Rapid Revenue Growth
The Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) market is experiencing a major growth wave in 2025, reshaping how the world consumes entertainment.
With global market revenue projected at $11.68 billion this year, FAST channels are emerging as a dominant force in the streaming landscape. What’s fueling this rise? A shift in consumer behavior—driven by economic uncertainty and the desire for cost-effective entertainment—has led millions to explore free, ad-supported alternatives over traditional TV or expensive subscriptions.
Looking ahead, the FAST market will grow at an 8% CAGR, reaching approximately $16.14 billion by 2029.
In a global context, the United States remains the powerhouse, generating the largest share of revenue—$5.78 billion by 2025. This underscores the FAST model’s deep resonance in a market where cable-cutting continues and AVOD (ad-supported video on demand) models thrive.
On a user level, the FAST market is also booming:
- By 2029, the global user base will reach 1.1 billion
- In 2025 user penetration is forecasted at 13.1%, with a modest climb to 13.4% by 2029
- The ARPU worldwide is expected to hit $11 this year
These numbers signal more than just a trend—they point to a fundamental shift in the global entertainment economy. As traditional models struggle to retain viewers, FAST channels are filling the gap, delivering free, flexible, and ad-supported content to millions worldwide.
In short: the future of TV might not be subscription-based—it might be FAST, free, and everywhere.
Expanding Viewership
In the ever-evolving television landscape, Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) is no longer just an alternative—it’s becoming a mainstream viewing choice for millions of households.
As viewers continue to seek more flexible and cost-effective entertainment, FAST platforms like Pluto TV, Tubi, and The Roku Channel are surging in popularity. In fact, over 51% of streaming audiences say they expect to spend more time watching FAST channels, signaling a major shift in media consumption habits.
Source: (Comcast Advertising)
While there was a slight dip in adoption—57% of U.S. TV viewers engaged with FAST platforms in 2023, down just one percentage point from 58% in 2022—overall momentum remains strong. This modest fluctuation reflects market stabilization rather than decline, as FAST transitions from novelty to norm.
Looking ahead, the growth trend is clear:
By 2026, FAST viewership will grow by 21% in the United States, reaching 120 million annual viewers.
These figures highlight the FAST model’s increasing hold on audience attention, especially among viewers tired of rising subscription fees and looking for more accessible, ad-supported options.
In short, FAST is not just catching up—it’s leading the way in the next wave of TV evolution.
Proliferation of Channels & Diverse Content Offerings
The Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV revolution is showing no signs of slowing down. With content offerings expanding rapidly and platforms scaling globally, FAST is rewriting the rules of television—and the numbers prove it.
Explosive Growth Across Key Markets
As of 2025, the number of active FAST channels in major markets—including the U.S., U.K., Germany, and Canada—has nearly doubled since mid-2023, reaching over 1,610 channels, according to a report by Gracenote.
Notably, nearly three-quarters of these channels are based in the United States, which remains the world’s leading FAST market.
Massive and Modern Content Library
Gone are the days when FAST was seen as a dumping ground for outdated content. Today’s FAST channels are bursting with on-demand-ready programming:
- Over 178,000 unique titles—spanning TV shows, episodes, and movies—are now available across the FAST ecosystem.
- More than 70% of this content was produced after 2010, challenging the myth that FAST is simply “old TV recycled.”
Genre Trends: What’s Hot on FAST?
FAST channels are tapping into what audiences love most, and the data shows strong genre-specific momentum:
- Entertainment leads as the most popular genre, accounting for 303 channels.
- Reality TV is the fastest-growing genre, with a staggering 626% increase, growing from just 19 to 138 channels since July 2024.
- Sports and news/commentary round out the top three genres, reflecting growing demand for both live-action content and timely discussions.
Platform Leaders: Who’s Dominating FAST?
Among U.S. FAST providers, several platforms have taken the lead in both scale and reach:
- During August 2024, Plex had 577 channels, helping the company to be at the top.
- While Amazon Freevee, as well as The Roku Channel, with 400 channels, stand second.
In contrast, ViX+ offers a more curated experience with just 80 channels, appealing to a niche audience.
The Takeaway
The FAST channel ecosystem in 2025 is:
Bigger — rapidly expanding across regions and platforms
Fresher — dominated by modern, relevant programming
Smarter — with platforms focusing on data-driven genres and user experience
More democratic — allowing both legacy media and independent creators to distribute content freely and globally
As viewers continue to embrace free, flexible streaming experiences, FAST is no longer an alternative—it’s the future of television.
Dominance in Connected TV: How FAST and Streaming Are Shaping TV’s Future?
The television landscape in the U.S. is undergoing a powerful transformation, and Connected TV (CTV) is at the center of it. Fueled by platforms like Tubi, Roku, Pluto TV, and Disney+, and accelerated by the rise of Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST), viewers are rapidly shifting away from cable and embracing internet-connected content.
Older Audiences are Leading the FAST Surge
In 2022, viewers aged 55 and older accounted for the largest share (43%) of FAST app usage on CTV devices in the U.S. Interestingly, younger age groups were less likely to use FAST apps, revealing a generational divide in streaming habits, though that’s changing quickly with overall CTV growth.
Daily Habits: 2 Hours a Day and Growing
By Q3 2023, U.S. audiences were spending just under 2 hours per day on connected TV, making up over 40% of their total TV viewing time. This marked a significant moment: in June 2023, streaming content surpassed cable TV usage for the first time ever, with streaming accounting for 40.3% of all TV time, topping cable’s 40.1% record set in 2021.
Source: (Nielsen.com)
More Choices Than Ever
The average American household now has access to an overwhelming 32,200 linear TV channels and 89 streaming video sources. While this variety hasn’t increased total TV time, it has dramatically changed where and how people watch. CTV makes it possible to tap into nearly every corner of internet content, from niche documentaries to blockbuster films, all from the living room screen.
Younger Viewers Are Powering CTV Growth
CTV’s popularity among younger audiences is even more striking:
- 80.2% of teens (12–17 years) use CTV
- 73.6% of young adults (21–34 years)
- 56.8% of adults aged 25–54
In summer 2024, school-aged viewers led the largest uptick in TV usage across demographics, thanks to increased screen time during break months.
Source: (Nielsen.com)
Platforms like Netflix (+11.8%), Max (+11.0%), Disney+ (+14.8%), and Tubi (+14.7%) saw double-digit usage growth, much of it driven by younger users.
Advertising Shifts & Measurement Gaps
This explosion in CTV engagement hasn’t gone unnoticed by advertisers. North American marketers in 2023 shifted 45% of their ad budgets to ConnectedTV. However, 40% still report challenges in measurement and attribution, suggesting that while the screens have changed, analytics need to catch up.
The Bigger Picture
- CTV usage among U.S. adults grew 20% in the past year, now representing nearly 40% of all TV time.
- While the total amount of TV watched has remained steady (~32 hours per week), how and where viewers watch has changed dramatically.
- Platforms like YouTube (9.9% of TV share) and Tubi (2.0%) are now setting records, with some streaming services posting their best-ever performance metrics.
What This Means
The data points to a clear trend: CTV is now the dominant medium for TV content consumption—not just among tech-savvy youth, but increasingly across all age groups. The FAST model in particular is booming, offering free, ad-supported access to content that’s recent, relevant, and easy to find.
In short, the battle for the living room has a new winner—and it’s connected, streaming, and free.
Implications for the Entertainment Industry
Advertisers: The growth of FAST TV apps offers new opportunities for targeted advertising, reaching audiences who prefer free content over subscription-based models.
Content Creators: FAST platforms provide an avenue to monetize existing content libraries and reach wider audiences without the need for subscription fees.
Viewers: Consumers benefit from a wide range of free content, including news, sports, and entertainment, accessible through various devices without subscription costs.
Are Fast Channels Changing Traditional Local Media in 2025?
As traditional local media outlets face declining viewership, shrinking ad revenues, and increasing operational costs, a surprising hero is stepping into the spotlight: Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels.
Once considered a niche corner of the streaming industry, FAST platforms such as Pluto TV, Tubi, Freevee, Roku Channel, and Plex are now redefining how local content is delivered and consumed, reaching audiences that traditional broadcasters are struggling to keep.
Reviving Local News and Community Stories
Many small media outlets are launching their own FAST channels to distribute:
- Local news broadcasts
- School and community events
- City council coverage
- Regional weather and traffic
It allows cost-effective broadcasting without needing a cable license or expensive equipment.
Example: A local news team in Detroit can now stream 24/7 via Roku or Tubi instead of competing for airtime on national networks.
Giving Voice to Underserved Communities
FAST platforms offer low-barrier access for diverse creators and community storytellers, especially in regions overlooked by mainstream media.
Ethnic media outlets, indie producers, and niche cultural organizations can now reach wider audiences without gatekeepers.
Rebuilding Ad Revenue with Targeted Reach
Advertisers have taken notice. Almost 45% of North American marketers in 2023 shifted budgets to ConnectedTV, including FAST platforms. While measurement remains a challenge (40% of marketers cite this), the demand for audience-targeted, localized ad delivery continues to rise.
Unlike traditional local TV, FAST channels offer dynamic ad insertion and geo-targeted placements, making ad space more attractive and measurable.
Local businesses can now:
- Run ads during relevant shows
- Target specific ZIP codes or demographics
- Pay less than they would for cable slots
This creates a new revenue stream for small broadcasters and hyperlocal brands.
Recycling Existing Content Into Streaming Gold
Local news stations, churches, schools, and city agencies often have decades of video archives sitting unused.
FAST channels allow them to:
- Curate and replay classic content
- Showcase past events
- Package educational or civic content for on-demand access
- Old footage becomes valuable digital programming.
Modern, Relevant Content
FAST content isn’t just reruns anymore:
- 70% of programming was produced after 2010
- Since mid-2024, Reality TV channels have increased by 626%
- 178,000+ unique programs, episodes, and films are now available across FAST services
With genres like news, sports, reality, and local commentary leading the charge, FAST channels are bringing back the variety and topicality that local TV once dominated.
Expanding Reach Beyond the Zip Code
Local stories can now go global. FAST platforms require no subscriptions, making them ideal for:
- Low-income households
- Older viewers (43% of FAST users are aged 55+)
- Cord-cutters who want passive, channel-based viewing
What starts as a community festival video or a small-town docuseries can gain national or international visibility on a FAST platform—something never possible with traditional TV licensing.
By 2026, FAST viewership will grow by 21%, surpassing 120 million annual viewers in the U.S. alone. This gives advertisers and community organizations a powerful way to reach broad demographics, without the barriers of paywalls or cable boxes.
Data-Driven Local Expansion
Platforms like Plex (577 channels), Freevee, and Roku (400+ each) are not just aggregators—they’re beginning to invest in regionalized content strategies based on viewership data.
This opens the door for:
- Local news stations to syndicate via FAST
- Regional networks to launch custom-branded FAST channels
- Community creators to reach audiences directly, without a network license
With over 1,610 FAST channels globally (and more than 70% based in the U.S.), these platforms provide diverse programming choices, often tailored to micro-interests that once defined local media.
What the Future Holds for FAST Channels?
As FAST viewership continues to rise, with projections showing 1.1 billion global users by 2029, the line between local and digital will blur further. These platforms don’t just replace traditional local media—they reinvent it, making it accessible, scalable, and engaging across age groups and devices.
In a time when local newspapers are shuttering and regional TV stations are consolidating, FAST channels are breathing new life into community-driven storytelling, proving that free, ad-supported streaming can do more than entertain—it can inform, connect, and empower.
Final Thought
FAST channels are no longer a side note in the streaming revolution. They’re becoming the digital backbone of community content, especially in places where local voices risk going silent. By embracing innovation, relevance, and accessibility, FAST platforms are bridging the gap between yesterday’s local news and tomorrow’s connected communities.
Let’s Turn Your Local Media into a FAST TV Experience
Traditional local media doesn’t have to be left behind in the digital era. With the explosive growth of free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST), now is the perfect time to transform your local station, news outlet, or community media brand into a modern, accessible streaming experience.
Alphanso Technology can help you do just that.
From end-to-end FAST channel platform development to monetization, Alphanso Technology empowers broadcasters, media houses, as well as independent creators to launch and manage their own FAST TV channels across platforms like Roku, Fire TV, Android TV, Samsung TV, and more.
Bring your local voice to a global streaming audience. Whether you’re a traditional media brand looking to modernize or a niche creator wanting to scale, Alphanso Technology is your FAST-track partner.
FAQs
What kind of content works best on FAST channels?
FAST audiences enjoy a variety of genres, including news, sports, reality TV, documentaries, entertainment, kids’ shows, and lifestyle programming. Channels that focus on niche or underserved interests also perform well.
Can I include local or niche content on my FAST channel?
Yes! Whether it’s local news, regional entertainment, or niche lifestyle content, FAST channels thrive on specialized programming.
Is there a cost to viewers to access FAST channels?
No. FAST channels are 100% free for viewers. They’re supported by advertising. This makes them highly accessible and ideal for reaching wide audiences.
How long does it take to launch a FAST channel?
Depending on content readiness and custom requirements, a basic FAST channel can be launched within 4 to 6 weeks with Alphanso Technology.
What platforms can my FAST channel be available on?
We support deployment across major platforms, including
- Roku
- Amazon Fire TV
- Android TV
- Samsung TV Plus
- LG Channels
- Apple TV
- Mobile apps
- Web streaming
Is there a way to track channel performance and viewer data?
Yes. We provide built-in analytics dashboards to track viewer engagement, peak watch times, ad performance, and more, so you can optimize content and monetization strategies.
Is it possible to launch multiple FAST channels?
Definitely. Whether you want to build a network of themed channels or separate brands under one umbrella, we can develop and manage multiple FAST streams from a centralized dashboard.
Can I launch a FAST channel even if I’m not a media company?
Yes! Independent creators, podcasters, sports leagues, schools, churches, and brands can all launch FAST channels to reach niche audiences and build loyal viewership.