The Best Of MIP Global FAST & AVOD Summit - Part I
What happens in Cannes stays in Cannes?
Hey streamers 👋
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Today’s program
You couldn’t make it to Cannes for MIPTV last week? Or you were sleeping during the Global AVOD & FAST summit? I’ve got your back. You’ll find below the summary of the first 2 sessions, and as a bonus: the full transcripts!
The State of FAST
Serving local audiences with optimized viewing experience
And… Action!
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The State of FAST
Presented by Alan Wolk, Co-Founder/Lead Analyst, TVREV
Alan Wolk unpacked the state of FAST in a presentation that was engaging and informative. Let's get into the essentials you don’t want to miss:
Understanding FAST
First off, let's clarify a common mix-up: FAST services and FAST channels are not the same. FAST services, like TUBI and Samsung TV Plus, provide the platform - handling the interface, marketing, and the aggregation of content. FAST channels, on the other hand, are the actual content streams you watch. Knowing this distinction is key to understanding the ecosystem and how content reaches you.
Quality over quantity
Remember the early days of cable with random, often irrelevant channels? FAST started similarly but is maturing rapidly. Major studios are now curating content for FAST platforms, focusing on high-quality offerings rather than just filling space. This shift towards quality means you’re likely to find more compelling and engaging content, reflecting a more curated viewing experience similar to the refinement of cable TV in the 1980s.
“In most of the world, FAST is going to dominate the way people watch TV.” Alan Wolk
Enhancing User Experience
FAST isn't just throwing content at you, it's about delivering an enjoyable viewing experience. This includes designing better user interfaces that make it easier to navigate and discover new favorites. Integrating AI helps personalize your viewing suggestions, enhancing satisfaction and stickiness. The blending of linear and on-demand viewing options also means you can start with a live channel and easily switch to binge-watching earlier episodes if something catches your eye.
Global expansion
FAST services originated in the U.S. but are now making waves worldwide. In regions like India, where traditional streaming subscription costs are prohibitive for many, FAST offers a viable alternative. This global expansion is not just about spreading U.S. content worldwide; it’s also about fostering local content providers like Rakuten in Europe, which tailor content to regional tastes and preferences.
“SVOD is the new primetime and FAST is the new cable.” Alan Wolk
Diversifying content with Sports and News
While top-tier sports leagues may still be out of FAST's reach, there’s plenty of action for sports enthusiasts with niche but passionate followings, like CrossFit on Pluto TV. News is also making a big leap to FAST, particularly local news, which is transitioning from traditional cable to streaming platforms, offering viewers accessibility without extra costs. This local focus means content that’s more relevant to viewers’ immediate environments and interests.
Challenges in monetization
The big question for FAST is profitability. Unlike cable in the US, FAST doesn't collect retransmission fees, relying instead on ad revenue. The industry is still experimenting with effective monetization strategies, including dynamic ad placements and partnerships. How these platforms attract big-brand advertising and manage to measure viewer engagement accurately will be crucial for their financial sustainability.
Full transcript available here:
“In the next couple of years, the Ads on SVOD services like Netflix, Disney+ and Max are going to reach critical mass. This is when the big brands are gonna move their budgets to FAST.” Alan Wolk
Serving Local Audiences with optimized viewing experience
Moderated by Alan Wolk, Co-Founder/Lead Analyst, TVREV
Jennifer Batty, Director of Content Partnerships - Samsunt TV Plus Europe and MENA & Maciej Gozdowski, Group Vice President - Streaming at Warner Bros. Discovery Poland
Moderated by Alan Wolk, we had Jennifer from Samsung TV Plus discussing their expansion in Europe and soon, the Middle East, and Maciej from Warner Bros. Discovery Poland, overseeing their streaming strategies.
User Interface perfection
Jennifer explained how Samsung TV Plus integrates both Linear and On-Demand content seamlessly. She detailed the user-friendly interface that features electronic program guides (EPGs) and favorite channels, making it easy for anyone to navigate, even if they are not tech wizards.
“Local is king and queen, especially in Europe.” Jennifer Batty
Content discovery challenges
Maciej discussed the challenges in content discovery due to the vast volume and variety available. He stressed the importance of strategic collaborations across broadcasters and producers to guide viewers effortlessly to their next favorite show or movie.
The power of local content
Jennifer provided specific examples of Samsung TV Plus strategy in Europe, where partnerships with local content providers are crucial. She mentioned collaborations in France with Altice media, in Spain with RTVE, and in the UK with BBC, ITV, and Channel 4, illustrating Samsung’s commitment to delivering region-specific content that resonates with local audiences.
“The Olympic Games on Max will be a completely new experience.” Maciej Gozdowski,
Integrating News and Sports
As FAST platforms evolve, including diverse news sources and local sports content has become a priority. Jennifer discussed the strategy of blending international with local news to cater to diverse preferences, while Maciej mentioned leveraging popular local sports to draw in viewers.
Tech innovations
Both panelists discussed the role of AI in improving personalized viewer experiences. From smarter content recommendations to more targeted ads, AI is set to make streaming more intuitive and personalized.
“Sports is a very big driver for us.” Jennifer Batty
Future projections
Looking to the future, Jennifer expressed excitement about the potential for FAST to become synonymous with television, anticipating a time when streaming is as straightforward as traditional TV. Maciej pondered the challenges of engaging younger audiences who prefer consuming content on platforms like TikTok and YouTube.
Alan Wolk wrapped up the panel by reflecting on the evolution of FAST and its growing role in the mainstream media consumption landscape. He highlighted the ongoing innovations that are likely to transform how we think about and interact with television.
Full transcript available here:
That’s all for today, what happened during the first hour of the Global FAST & AVOD Summit at MIPTV last week. If you enjoyed this breakdown, please consider sharing it with your friends and colleagues!
I hope everyone has a great week, see you online next Monday. Until then, enjoy Fallout on Prime Video. 200 years after the apocalypse, a peaceful denizen from a cozy fallout shelter is forced to return to the surface, and is shocked to discover the wasteland waiting for her.
The Streaming Lab is a weekly newsletter exploring the trends that matter to streaming professionals in the MENA region. If you are not already a subscriber, sign up and receive it directly in your inbox every Monday.
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