Samsung Electronics hosted a panel discussion titled “FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV” at CES 2026, held at The Wynn in Las Vegas on January 7. The event gathered industry leaders to examine the evolution of streaming, particularly the rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST). This gathering highlighted the ongoing transformation in consumer viewing habits and the role of technology in shaping content delivery.
Salek Brodsky, Senior Vice President and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus, moderated the panel featuring notable figures such as Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh, and Bruce Casino, Executive Vice President of Sales & Distribution at NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution. The discussion focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television amid growing concerns about subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming market.
FAST’s Growing Role in Streaming
As viewers navigate a complex landscape filled with subscriptions, FAST services like Samsung TV Plus offer a streamlined experience with hundreds of live and on-demand channels available at no cost. “The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer,” Brodsky noted. He emphasized that the goal of Samsung TV Plus is to simplify the television experience, merging linear discovery with a modern, connected interface.
The panelists agreed that FAST is becoming a critical component of the streaming ecosystem. It complements subscription and traditional models, offering proven programming at scale without compromising performance elsewhere. According to Casino, “FAST doesn’t replace traditional distribution; it extends it.” This perspective illustrates how studios can leverage FAST to reach new audiences and enhance the longevity of established franchises.
Creators and Interactive Content Reshape Television
The discussion also shed light on how the evolving landscape allows content creators to operate independently from traditional studios. As platforms like FAST emerge, they help bridge the gap between digital culture and conventional television. Samsung TV Plus serves as an essential platform for creators, enabling them to transition from digital-first brands to full-fledged television producers.
Smosh, a sketch comedy-improv collective, exemplifies this shift. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, the brand has not only deepened its engagement with existing fans but also expanded its audience significantly. Catanese remarked, “Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand.”
Panelists also highlighted the importance of live programming and interactive experiences in driving viewer engagement. Features such as synchronized premieres and real-time participation are transforming television from a passive medium into an interactive one. This evolution fosters connection and excitement among audiences, creating shared moments that enhance the viewing experience.
The consensus among the panelists pointed to a future where television is defined by flexibility, cultural connection, and participatory experiences. Brodsky encapsulated this sentiment by stating, “Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most.”
As the streaming landscape continues to evolve, Samsung aims to shape a television ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunities for creators, and scale for advertisers, redefining the medium for 2026 and beyond.
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. is committed to advancing technology across various sectors, including televisions, smartphones, and smart home devices. With its comprehensive SmartThings ecosystem and integration of artificial intelligence, Samsung aims to deliver a seamless connected experience for users worldwide.
