Samsung TV Plus has surpassed 100 million monthly active users, cementing its position as the leading free‑ad‑supported streaming (FAST) platform worldwide. The service, pre‑installed on Samsung smart TVs and available on mobile devices, offers a growing lineup of linear channels without subscription fees, driving rapid user growth and attracting advertisers seeking global reach.
Samsung TV Plus Reaches 100 Million Monthly Active Users
Growth Drivers and Ad‑Supported Model
Samsung TV Plus now serves over 100 million users across more than 100 countries. The platform aggregates news, sports, entertainment, and niche genre channels, all funded by advertising. By bundling the app with Samsung’s hardware ecosystem, the company removes subscription barriers and creates a captive audience that advertisers can target at scale.
TVNZ+ Expands Live Streaming with Integrated TV Guide
Live Sports Boosts Viewer Engagement
New Zealand’s TVNZ+ platform combines live streaming of broadcast channels with an on‑demand library and a built‑in TV guide. The service is accessible on smart TVs, consoles, computers, tablets, and smartphones. A recent live broadcast of a major cricket match demonstrated TVNZ+’s ability to deliver real‑time sports alongside regular programming, reinforcing live streaming as a key viewer draw.
Regional Example: TV Plus Kumano’s Local Focus
Community‑Centric Content Strategy
In North Macedonia, TV Plus Kumano operates a web portal that aggregates local news, municipal updates, and community information. While it does not yet host a full FAST channel lineup, the platform’s branding aligns with the broader “TV Plus” movement, emphasizing accessible, internet‑delivered television for regional audiences.
Industry Implications of the TV Plus Trend
Ad‑Supported Streaming Gains Momentum
The 100 million‑user milestone validates the commercial viability of ad‑supported streaming, offering advertisers a global reach without the friction of subscription fees.
Hybrid Live and On‑Demand Experiences Become Standard
Integrating live streams, TV guides, and on‑demand libraries meets consumer expectations for seamless transitions between scheduled broadcasts and binge‑watchable content.
Branding and Device Ecosystem Impact
Adopting the “TV Plus” label signals a modern, digital‑first approach, while pre‑installation on smart devices underscores the role of hardware manufacturers in shaping distribution pathways.
Future Outlook for Free FAST Services
Continued growth will depend on securing premium advertising inventory, expanding niche channel line‑ups, and investing in reliable streaming infrastructure for live events. Regional operators may partner with larger FAST aggregators to broaden reach without building extensive content libraries. As Samsung TV Plus celebrates its user milestone and platforms like TVNZ+ refine live‑streaming capabilities, the industry is poised for further consolidation around free, ad‑supported streaming models.
