Exploring the Revolutionary Influence of FAST Models on Television's Future at CES 2026

At CES 2026, Samsung Electronics hosted a significant panel discussion titled "FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV" at The Wynn in Las Vegas. This event gathered prominent leaders from the entertainment and media sectors to delve into the ongoing transformation of the television landscape, particularly focusing on the rapid rise of Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television (FAST).

The conversation was moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, featuring esteemed panelists such as Salek Brodsky, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, Chief Executive Officer of Smosh; and Bruce Casino, Executive Vice President of Sales & Distribution at NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.

The Impact of Changing Consumer Behavior

The panelists opened with a discussion on the evolving relationship between consumers and the content they consume, highlighting how contemporary viewers are increasingly overwhelmed by subscription fatigue and fragmented streaming choices. In this context, FAST platforms like Samsung TV Plus aim to restore simplicity and value back into the television viewing experience by providing audiences with a diverse array of free, ad-supported channels—all in one accessible location.

Brodsky emphasized, "The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer. Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again, combining the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless and valuable."

The panelists noted that FAST has solidified its role within the streaming ecosystem, serving as a complementary model to both subscription and traditional television formats. It allows media companies to maximize the reach of proven content while delivering it on a larger scale.

The Rise of Hybrid Models

As the streaming landscape evolves, the integration of several distribution models is becoming more commonplace. According to the panel, the coexistence of FAST, subscription-based services, and traditional broadcasting is allowing for innovative ways to engage audiences. This approach not only prolongs the life of established franchises but also opens up new avenues to acquire fresh viewers without negatively impacting performance across platforms.

Bruce Casino shared insights on how this strategy has worked effectively for NBCUniversal, allowing them to offer a combination of classic and new content to FAST audiences while maintaining robust performance in traditional settings. "FAST doesn't replace traditional distribution; it extends it. When great content appears in multiple settings, it creates added value rather than competing with itself," Casino stated.

Creators Evolving into Studios

Another pivotal topic during the panel was the evolving role of content creators in today’s media landscape. The panel examined how advancements in technology and shifting viewer habits are empowering creators to function independently from legacy studios. With the growth of FAST, creators can now produce and distribute content at scale, reaching broader audiences beyond social media.

A prime example discussed was the sketch comedy collective, Smosh. By launching a dedicated FAST channel via Samsung TV Plus, Smosh successfully transitioned from a digital-first brand to a legitimate television studio, enhancing both its production quality and audience engagement. Alessandra Catanese remarked, "Our partnership with Samsung TV Plus enabled us to elevate our production quality and introduce our content to a wider audience within a premium environment."

Live and Interactive Experiences Transform Viewing

Beyond traditional on-demand viewing, the future of television is increasingly leaning towards live programming and interactive experiences. The panel emphasized how events like concerts and interactive broadcast features are transforming the viewer experience, transitioning from passive consumption to active participation.

These live experiences foster connections within the audience, creating moments that draw viewers in and cultivate a sense of community. Panelists collectively agreed that the future of television hinges on flexibility, cultural significance, and the ability to engage audiences actively—not merely entertain them.

Brodsky concluded, "Authentic content that nurtures cultural connections is paramount. That’s why we’re dedicated to investing in live events and interactive programming that remind audiences why TV has remained the heart of the home."

With the landscape of streaming undergoing rapid changes, Samsung is at the forefront of shaping an ecosystem that not only delivers exceptional value to viewers but also provides opportunities for creators and scalability for advertisers. The vision for television in 2026 and beyond is one that invites engagement, fosters connection, and continually innovates the viewing experience.

About Samsung and Samsung TV Plus

Samsung inspires global innovation through cutting-edge technology and products. The company is redefining the realms of TVs, digital devices, and smart technology, and is committed to enhancing user experiences through its SmartThings ecosystem.

Samsung TV Plus stands as a premium global entertainment service serving over 88 million active users monthly, offering thousands of shows and movies on-demand. Positioned as a leader in the FAST segment, Samsung TV Plus is accessible on more than 630 million devices worldwide without any subscription fees. Visithttp://www.samsungtvplus.comto learn more about the platform's offerings and capabilities.