The Programmatic Glossary
A practical glossary designed to help marketers, advertisers and ad-tech professionals understand the terminology that powers programmatic advertising
Ad Formats
FAST Channels (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV)
Free streaming TV channels that are funded entirely by advertising rather than subscriptions. Viewers watch content for free; advertisers pay to reach them. FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) is one of the fastest-growing segments of connected TV advertising.
HOW IT WORKS
FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels operate like traditional TV channels: scheduled programming streams continuously on smart TV platforms. Ad breaks are inserted into the content stream using SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion) technology. Inventory is sold programmatically via VAST (Video Ad Serving Template)-compatible CTV integrations.
EXAMPLE
A classic movie channel launches as a FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channel on a smart TV platform. Viewers watch old films for free and ads play in the commercial breaks. An FMCG (Fast-Moving Consumer Goods) brand buys FAST inventory programmatically, reaching a broad audience in a TV-like environment at a much lower CPM (Cost Per Mille) than traditional broadcast.
RELATED TERMS
Connected TV (CTV) | SSAI (Server-Side Ad Insertion) | VAST | In-stream Video | Programmatic Advertising
★ LIMELIGHT INSIGHT: Limelight supports FAST channel monetisation through its CTV infrastructure and VAST-compatible integrations, helping publishers capitalise on this fast-growing inventory type.
