NBC launching nearly 50 new free ad-supported streaming channels
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NBCUniversal (NASDAQ:CMCSA) is pouring into the free ad-supported streaming space with plans to launch almost 50 new channels devoted to shows from its library.
That's part of a FAST trend where users can visit "channels" that are devoted to streaming single shows' back episodes, supported by advertising inserted into the stream.
In July, NBCU will launch free channels around TV franchises including Saturday Night Live, The Real Housewives, Top Chef and Keeping Up with the Kardashians, as well as older programs to include Little House on the Prairie; Murder, She Wrote; Saved by the Bell; and The Lone Ranger.
It's also launching channels tied to Spanish-language entertainment and news from Telemundo, and genre-based channels focused on sitcoms, action, crime, Westerns and monster movies.
Those will appear via agreements with Amazon's Freevee (AMZN) and Xumo Play (NASDAQ:CHTR) (CMCSA).
âNBCUniversal is in the enviable position of owning a vast array of iconic shows that are not part of our broadcast and cable networks to curate a valuable portfolio of FAST channels,â said Matt Schnaars, President, NBCUniversal Content Distribution. "These channels, with content from some of the most recognizable brands in television, will find an immediate audience in the growing FAST ecosystem, and create value for NBCUniversal, our distribution partners, and our advertisers.â
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