Local broadcasters have emerged as influential players in the FAST ecosystem, adapting to the rise of digital streaming. While some, such as BBC Studios and ZDF, have prioritized launching channels on third-party platforms like Samsung TV Plus, others have integrated FAST channels into their own digital platforms.
In the UK, ITVX became one of the first broadcaster-led digital platforms to incorporate FAST channels, initially offering over a dozen owned and operated channels alongside its traditional linear channels. This strategy prioritizes control over scale, with a focus on a curated selection of channels. Since its launch, ITVX has maintained a lean channel lineup, further emphasizing its commitment to first-party content.
7Plus, Australia's Seven Network's digital platform, expanded its offerings to include FAST channels in 2022. While it features a diverse content library, the platform has placed a particular emphasis on sports, leveraging the network's strong position in the Australian sports rights market.
10Play, owned by Paramount Global, initially embraced FAST independently before aligning with Pluto TV Australia. This partnership has accelerated the platform's channel growth, particularly in scripted TV, reality, and entertainment programming. Pluto TV's global strategy, including its merger with Viafree in the Nordics, has enabled it to integrate local content and IP into its FAST offerings.


In 2024, two of the largest Broadcasters in France launched new platforms, with M6+ being the latest to include 13 FAST channels, procured through another content partnership deal with Pluto TV. The variety of channels on the platform is fairly indicative of most FAST platforms, with a similar numbers of scripted TV and entertainment channels taking up the majority of the EPG. However it will be interesting to see how the service looks to differentiate itself into the future. TF1 was the other French broadcaster platform to launch at the beginning of 2024, taking over from the previous MyTF1 service. Initially holding just over forty FAST channels, the service has steadily grown to almost seventy, focusing mainly on local scripted content, especially in the drama and animation genres.

Due to their comparatively smaller size, greater control over O&O channels and vast content libraries, broadcaster platforms are often able to refresh their content and channel branding rapidly. The likes of ITVX and 7Plus are not afraid to switch out IP and rebrand channels quickly in reaction to certain events or holiday seasons. For example, ITVX’s dedicated movies channel, “Movies 24/7”, has been rebranded multiple times this year to “OSCARS: The Academy Awards 24/7”, “Halloween 24/7” and “Xmas Movies”. As the FAST channels are likely there to supplement the broadcaster’s traditional channels, this consistent refresh of the EPG will keep the viewing experience newer and more original to returning viewers.
Sports is another key area where broadcasters can leverage their expertise and rights holdings. It has long been hypothesised that sports will play and important role in the evolution of FAST. Last Summer, ITVX able to launch dedicated pop-up channels to the Summer Olympics and European Football Championships, while 7Plus offers a variety of sports-focused channels and pop-ups that follow certain tournaments. These platforms can enhance the viewing experience for sports fans by offering additional content and analysis alongside the official broadcasts.
As the FAST landscape continues to evolve, it will be interesting to observe how broadcaster-led platforms differentiate themselves. Their strong brand identity, deep content libraries, and understanding of local markets position them well to shape the future of FAST television.