To explain itself, the fragmented TV industry employs a plethora of baffling acronyms. Their meanings are merging, but it’s critical for buyers to appreciate the subtlety in these definitions. AVOD and FAST are two of the most crucial acronyms to remember. Despite the presence of hundreds of streamers, programmers, and publishers, AVOD and FAST are the only two options to view ad-supported TV beyond the set-top box. The primary distinction between them is in content distribution.
Free ad-supported TV (FAST) apps host linear channels that deliver scheduled programming to a large audience via connected devices. In contrast, ad-supported video-on-demand (AVOD) is initiated by the user, who initiates individual viewing sessions that generate inventory from which personalised advertising can be served. FAST is the progression of ad-supported streaming, which has always been totally on-demand, thus, while it seems a lot like linear TV, it’s still CTV. As the name says, it is a free streaming TV service that provides programs. Almost all FAST providers provide both linear channels and on-demand choices. However, it is the “free” component that distinguishes them.
AVOD is a business strategy in some aspects but it is mostly a method of providing programming—shows and movies are accessible on demand with commercials. Some AVOD material is free, while others need a subscription it all depends on the service’s business plan. So ad-supported versus ad-free is the major differential here. It is a subset of the “On-Demand” distribution technique, however, because it can be paid or free, it is more of a delivery method than a business strategy.
FAST networks host networks that broadcast programmed content to a big group audience via the connected device, whereas AVOD platforms begin individual viewing experiences that generate inventory to display targeted advertisements to the audience.
AVOD and FAST are gaining in popularity because they provide users with economical and enticing ways to access a large selection of material without paying a membership fee. Whether it is understanding the impact of AVOD on FAST and their co-existence, 9MO is well-equipped to handle all things AVOD and FAST, contact us here to gain more insights and perspective.
