Streaming and broadcast television trends shift toward ad-supported models

The television landscape is undergoing a significant shift as viewers react to subscription fatigue and market fragmentation. The rise of Free Ad-supported Streaming Television (FAST) and Advertising Video On Demand (AVOD) models reflects a growing demand for free content as subscription-based services (SVOD) increase prices and lose exclusive content libraries.

Even major players like Netflix have begun exploring AVOD options and 24/7 linear channels to maintain relevance. This trend mirrors a resurgence in broadcast television, which remains a vital medium for live programming such as news, sports, and major award shows. While broadcast networks currently account for approximately 21% of total television viewing in the United States according to Nielsen, live events continue to provide a critical anchor for traditional networks amidst the competition from streaming and social media platforms.