Nielsen’s Gracenote content data business unit has announced the expansion of its FAST Program into the United States, to help content owners and providers in the seamless launch of new free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels. U.S.-based content owners can now distribute their television programs and movies to various streaming platforms, accompanied by industry-standard Gracenote metadata, ensuring their offerings are easily discoverable and monetizable.
After launching in Europe in late 2023, the Gracenote FAST Programme is now extending its support to US-based content owners. It will assist content owners by navigating the complexities of launching and distributing their Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV (FAST) channels, incorporating enriched metadata attributes crucial for enhancing viewer discoverability. Leveraging Gracenote’s extensive distribution network, which includes top streaming platforms, the programme ensures seamless onboarding and immediate availability of content for participants.
“Go-to-market complexity in the FAST ecosystem can slow the process of launching channels and getting content in front of entertainment-hungry viewers,” advises Tim Cutting, Chief Revenue Officer at Gracenote. “By removing obstacles for content owners in the US, the Gracenote FAST Programme facilitates wider content distribution, better content discovery and deeper viewer engagement. Ultimately, this helps participants maximise ad monetisation against their valuable content assets and position themselves for success now and into the future.”
Despite variations in data requirements, streaming platforms will now have access to relevant metadata and assets through the Gracenote distribution network for FAST channel deployment. Gracenote process will ensure that enriched program data and EPG data are readily available to streaming platforms once content owners submit their programs and schedules.
Participants in the Gracenote FAST Program will have access to:
- Ingestible schedules: For each program being aired, standardized date and time formats will be followed ensuring linear schedule accuracy and aid tune-in
- Enhanced merchandising assets: Regardless of platform, enriched program synopses and visual imagery that power program presentation and draw viewers in
- Expanded metadata coverage: Make your content findable in current and future discovery experiences with standardised genre categories and more advanced data tags