FAST Channels: Why They Matter to Internet Providers

By: Cheryl Summers | Read Time: 3 mins.

FAST Channels: Why They Matter to Internet Providers

You’ve likely been hearing a lot about FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels—platforms like TiVo+. It’s no surprise: with viewers increasingly looking for low-cost content options, FAST has emerged as a key part of the video distribution ecosystem.

But while TiVo+ gets a lot of attention, it’s important to note that it’s not the only FAST platform available. In fact, most modern IPTV platforms with a TV app now offer some form of FAST integration, giving providers a wider array of choices than ever before.

From a product strategy perspective, offering FAST channels is a smart way to strengthen the TV + Internet bundle—especially for price-sensitive customers. It helps ISPs and MVPDs stand out from internet-only competitors by transforming broadband from a utility into a value-rich service. FAST also deepens customer engagement, and engaged customers are more satisfied—and far less likely to churn.

From a financial perspective, don’t forget that several FAST platforms provide a share of advertising revenue back to the operator.

📊 What the Data Tells Us: FAST Is on the Rise

According to the recently released State of Media, Entertainment & Tech: Viewing Behaviors 2025 report from Horowitz Research, 85% of U.S. consumers watch some form of live TV, including a surprising 78% of 18–34-year-olds. And while older adults (91% of those 50+) are more likely to watch live content, younger viewers are more likely to turn to FAST services for their live TV needs.

“Free, ad‑supported streaming TV (FAST) services have quickly become the leading source for live viewing, with 40% of live viewers saying they typically watch live TV on FAST, followed by traditional cable/satellite providers (36%), subscription streaming services (33%), YouTube (19%), and virtual MVPD services (16%).” — Horowitz Research

In fact, 40% of live viewers say they typically watch live TV on FAST, compared to just 36% on traditional cable/satellite and 33% on subscription streaming services.

And that generational divide is even clearer:

• 53% of 18–34-year-olds
• 47% of 35–49-year-olds…say they prefer watching live TV via FAST—compared to just 29% of those 50+.

🧠 What This Means for You

As a Video Product leader, these trends offer a clear takeaway: including FAST channels is no longer optional—it’s a strategic imperative.

Whether your company is rolling out a full IPTV solution or simply seeking ways to enhance broadband-only packages, adding free or ultra-low-cost TV options creates value and customer loyalty. It’s also a powerful way to appeal across generations: offering traditional live experiences for older viewers and app-based, snackable content for younger ones.

As Adriana Waterston, Executive VP of Insights & Strategy at Horowitz Research, put it:

“The rising dominance of FAST services for live TV viewing is an important and welcome development… giving advertisers a direct route to younger, Gen Z audiences, whom traditional TV advertising has not been effective at reaching.”

🔗 Learn More from Horowitz Research

The full Horowitz report explores platform share, content trends, device usage, and consumer satisfaction—available in total market and multicultural editions. To learn more, access the full report here.

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