Amagi’s Latest FAST Report Unpacks the Future of Streaming: Hybrid Models, Monetization, and Distribution Trends

Amagi, a leading provider of cloud-based SaaS solutions for broadcast and CTV, has released its 14th Amagi Global FAST Report, highlighting the growing shift among content providers toward unified, platform-agnostic distribution. As the traditional distinctions between video services continue to blur, content owners are exploring ways to streamline operations and enhance monetization.

According to the report, the industry is witnessing increasing convergence, with pay TV services integrating FAST channels, SVOD platforms rolling out ad-supported tiers, and FAST services blending linear programming with AVOD content. This shift highlights the need for greater efficiency in distribution strategies as media companies look to optimize costs and better cater to evolving consumer preferences.

Srinivasan KA, co-founder and chief revenue officer of Amagi, emphasized the urgency for content providers to break away from outdated distribution models. “The media landscape is rapidly evolving, and the old ways of distributing content in silos just won’t cut it anymore,” he stated. “Viewers are flocking to free streaming services, but they’re frustrated with the fragmented experience of jumping between multiple platforms. This presents a clear opportunity for video services that offer an integrated experience combining free, paid, and ad-supported models.”

The Demand for Unified Streaming Experiences

Findings from the January 2025 Amagi Consumer Survey, which gathered insights from over 500 U.S. households, reinforce the need for a more streamlined approach to content distribution:

• 65% of respondents find the current streaming landscape overwhelming due to fragmentation.
• 75% would prefer a video service that offers a mix of free, paid, and ad-supported options.

Amagi’s report indicates that global hours of viewing (HOV) and ad impressions among its FAST customers grew 95% and 65%, respectively, year-over-year. The U.S. and Canada led the growth, with a 98% increase in HOV and a 67% rise in ad impressions, while also accounting for 50% of all new channel launches—further solidifying their dominance in the FAST ecosystem.

Entertainment remains the most popular genre worldwide, growing over 100% year-over-year and contributing to 42% of all new FAST channel launches.

Hybrid Monetization: The Future of Streaming Revenue Models

As platforms seek to balance monetization and user experience, hybrid tiers—offering a mix of ad-free and ad-supported options—are gaining traction. This model provides the flexibility that cost-conscious audiences demand while ensuring sustainable revenue streams for platforms. The latest guide from Looper Insights, Streaming Forward, confirms that hybrid monetization strategies are now a central focus for streamers:

• Hybrid models are expected to increase, giving consumers the option to pay for ad-free experiences or opt into ad-supported viewing at a lower cost.
• 47% of all new streaming subscriptions in Q2 2024 were for ad-supported tiers, underscoring the growing preference for affordability.
• Personalized ad formats—such as Hulu’s pause ads and Amazon Prime Video’s interactive ad experiences—are helping platforms strike a balance between monetization and viewer satisfaction.

By integrating FAST, SVOD, and AVOD models into a seamless, unified offering, platforms can reduce churn, increase engagement, and maximize revenue streams. Those that fail to embrace this transformation risk being left behind in an increasingly competitive streaming landscape.