Samsung Maps Television’s Next Shift

Samsung Electronics used a CES 2026 panel in Las Vegas to examine how free ad-supported television (FAST), digital creators and live interactive programming are reshaping the future of television. The Jan. 6 discussion brought together executives from Samsung TV Plus, Smosh and NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.

The panel highlighted FAST as an increasingly important part of the streaming market amid subscription fatigue and fragmented viewing options. Samsung said its TV Plus service offers hundreds of live and on-demand channels for free across Samsung televisions and other devices, combining traditional channel discovery with connected streaming features.

Executives also described FAST, subscription services and linear television as complementary distribution models rather than competing replacements. NBCUniversal executive Bruce Casino said distributing established and newer programming across multiple platforms can extend the value of entertainment franchises without reducing their performance elsewhere.

The discussion further focused on creators moving from social platforms into television. Smosh CEO Alessandra Catanese said the comedy brand’s FAST channel on Samsung TV Plus has helped it expand its audience and invest in higher-quality production. Panelists also pointed to live events, synchronized premieres and real-time participation as ways technology can turn television viewing into a more social and interactive experience.