UKTV adds eight free streaming channels
The new FAST channels use brands including those of BBC Studios, among them EastEnders.
Translated from Dutch by AI
UKTV is expanding its offering of free, advertising-funded streaming channels with eight new services. The offering includes channels centred on EastEnders, Top Gear, Gardeners’ World and Antiques Roadshow.
The channels are being offered as FAST services: free ad-supported streaming television. Viewers do not pay for access, but see advertisements. UKTV positions the expansion as a way to redistribute existing British television catalogues and grow advertising revenue from streaming.
The new channels use brands from the UKTV and BBC Studios portfolios. The announcement mentions EastEnders, Top Gear, Gardeners’ World and Antiques Roadshow. Exact programming and availability by platform may vary between channels.
UKTV is a commercial broadcaster group owned by BBC Studios. The expansion gives the catalogue more space within the FAST offering.
The expansion could intensify competition for advertising budgets between traditional broadcasters, streaming services and platform operators. FAST channels are free streaming channels funded by advertising.
How many new viewers and how much advertising revenue the eight channels will bring UKTV remains uncertain.
For rights holders and producers, the allocation of catalogue rights, advertising sales and international distribution may be significant. The new channels are initially part of UKTV’s UK strategy.
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The expansion with eight FAST channels and the programme brands involved has been confirmed by UKTV. The commercial consequences are cautiously worded because financial forecasts are unavailable.
- Confirmed UKTV is adding eight FAST channels. — Confirmed by UKTV.
- Confirmed The channels are funded by advertising. — FAST stands for free ad-supported streaming television; UKTV links the expansion to advertising revenue.
- Confirmed EastEnders, Top Gear, Gardeners’ World and Antiques Roadshow are being used. — Mentioned in the official announcement.
- Confirmed UKTV is owned by BBC Studios. — Confirmed through UKTV’s company information.