FAST channels are delivered over the internet but, unlike on demand content where the viewer chooses a specific episode or film to watch, they show a pre-determined schedule of content just like a traditional broadcast channel does.
This means that when you open a channel, you’re watching the same episode or film as everyone else watching at that time.
Often they’re built around a single show or theme, such as those recently announced by UK broadcaster Channel 4, but they can also offer a mix of content from multiple genres.
The name stands for Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television and, as it implies, the channels are offered subscription-free in return for watching adverts before and during shows.
FAST channels are offered by a growing number of apps, including Paramount’s Pluto TV, ITVX and the Amazon owned Freevee.
They’re also offered by some Smart TV makers such as Samsung and Hisense who offer their own curated line-up in the same programme guide used to find and navigate your regular broadcast channels.
Some streaming devices, such as those from Amazon, show FAST channels from multiple providers alongside each other in a single programme guide.