The popularity of free ad-supported streaming platforms is on the rise in households worldwide, with ad revenue from these services experiencing exponential growth, according to Digital TV Research. The report suggests that this trend shows no signs of slowing down.
Digital TV Research predicts that global revenue from free ad-based film and show streaming will exceed $17 billion in 2029, a significant increase from the estimated $8 billion generated this year. The research group also states that the United States will contribute 38% to the total revenue in 2029, a drop from 56% this year, indicating increased growth in international markets.
These numbers highlight the ongoing evolution of the streaming industry, which has transitioned from exclusive subscription-based services like Netflix to free access models supported by advertisements. The appeal of these options has grown as subscription services such as Disney+ and Max continuously raise their prices, prompting budget-conscious audiences to seek more affordable alternatives.
According to the report, the United States is expected to be the only country generating over $1 billion in revenue from free streaming services, commonly known as FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television) platforms. The United Kingdom and Canada are projected to be just below that milestone. Together, these three countries will account for nearly half of the global total.
The report predicts that the United States will generate an additional $2.1 billion in revenue, reaching a total of $6.5 billion.
Simon Murray, principal analyst at Digital TV Research, states, “Pluto TV, Roku Channel, and Samsung TV Plus will contribute to almost half of the global FAST revenues by 2029. The rest of the FAST market will remain fragmented, with less globalization compared to the subscription video on demand (SVOD) sector.”
Digital TV Research also anticipates that Pluto TV will generate $3.1 billion in revenue, the Roku Channel $3.4 billion, and Samsung TV Plus $1.6 billion.
As cord-cutting becomes increasingly popular, individuals are seeking additional ways to save money while still having access to their favorite content. An internal poll conducted by Cord Cutters News reveals that households, even those among the group of cord-cutters, are reducing the number of streaming services they subscribe to. Consumers are looking to pay less for entertainment overall and are cutting back on the number of services they use, whether free or paid.
