Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. yesterday held “FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV” as part of its Tech Forum panel series at CES 2026. Taking place at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada, the panel brought together leaders from entertainment and media to explore the evolution of streaming and the rapid rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST).

The session highlighted the interconnected relationship between today’s rapidly evolving consumer behaviours and preferences, the transformation of content by technology and monetisation models, the expanding role of creators as studios and the ways in which interactive and live experiences are catalysing a shift from passive viewing into active engagement.

Moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, the panel featured Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh; and Bruce Casino, EVP, Sales & Distribution, U.S., NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.

FAST Gains Momentum as Audiences Recalibrate Value

As audiences grapple with subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming landscape, the panel focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television. Samsung TV Plus anchored the conversation as a platform designed to reduce friction, offering hundreds of live and on-demand channels in one free, easily accessible experience across compatible Samsung TVs and devices across the world.

“The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer,” said SVP Brodsky. “Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again and combine the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless, curated and truly valuable.”

The panelists emphasised that FAST has evolved into a core part of the streaming ecosystem, complementing subscription and traditional models while delivering premium, proven programming at scale. For Samsung TV Plus, that evolution is rooted in shared experiences that elevate viewing and meet users not just where they already are, but where they want to be.

Hybrid Models Redefine the Streaming Ecosystem

Panelists emphasised that the evolution of streaming is less about replacing traditional models and more about expanding how audiences engage with content. FAST, subscription and linear distribution models are increasingly working in tandem, allowing studios to extend the life of proven franchises, reach new viewers, and unlock additional value without sacrificing performance elsewhere. By leveraging data, audience behaviour and decades of content insight, media companies are deploying FAST to complement existing channels and create more resilient and diversified ecosystems.

EVP Bruce Casino highlighted how this approach has enabled NBCUniversal to bring both classic and contemporary content to FAST audiences while continuing to see strong performance across platforms. “FAST doesn’t replace traditional distribution, it extends it,” said Casino. “What we’re seeing is that when great content shows up in multiple places, it creates incremental value rather than cannibalisation – allowing franchises to thrive across FAST, streaming and linear channels.”

Creators Emerge as the New Studios

The panel also examined how the changing nature of consumer habits and television platforms means content creators do not have to work exclusively with legacy studios to reach a broad audience. As this medium expands from social platforms to the living room, FAST is helping bridge digital culture and traditional TV, while also serving to elevate its production quality.

Samsung TV Plus was highlighted as a platform that helps creators evolve from digital-first brands into full-fledged television studios, helping expand reach, unlock new monetisation opportunities, and introduce content to broader, global audiences.

One of the clearest examples of a brand that has taken the step from digital-first brand to legitimate TV studio is sketch comedy-improv collective Smosh. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, Smosh has been able to strengthen its connection with its already-dedicated fans while gaining access to a much larger viewer base. Due to this evolution, Smosh has enhanced long-term growth.

“Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand,” said CEO Alessandra Catanese. “It was the right platform to help us reach a broader audience while positioning our content in a premium environment that supports where we’re headed as a company.”

Live and Interactive Experiences Drive Engagement

Looking beyond on-demand viewing, panelists discussed how live programming like concerts and interactivity are reshaping the television experience by creating shared moments that audiences actively participate in.

With features such as synchronised premieres and real-time participation, technology is transforming television from a passive activity into an interactive experience – fostering connection, excitement and a sense of belonging that brings viewers together organically. Together, the panelists agreed that the future of television will be defined by flexibility, cultural connection and experiences that invite participation, not just consumption.

“Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most,” said SVP Brodsky. “That’s why we’re investing in live events, creator programming and interactive formats that remind people why TV has always been the center of the home.”

As streaming continues to evolve, Samsung is focused on helping shape a TV ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunity for creators and scale for advertisers, redefining what television can be in 2026 and beyond.

To stay up to date with the latest product news and special offers on Samsung’s 2026 product line-up, Australians can register their interest via https://www.samsung.com/au/handraiserces/

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. today announced that Samsung TV Plus will livestream the Jonas Brothers’ “JONAS20 Greetings From Your Hometown” tour from key American stops. Live action from the highly anticipated tour will be available to watch exclusively on the streaming service’s Entertainment Hub channel in Australia[1].

Starting in Australia on Aug. 11 at 9:30am local AEST[2], fans can livestream the Jonas Brothers’ North America tour. The streams will feature backstage access, surprise guests and all the fan-favourite hits, with the concert including a surprise host conducting live interviews, commentary and more.

“Partnering with the Jonas Brothers to livestream their upcoming tour on Samsung TV Plus reflects our commitment to connecting audiences with the artists and stories they love, on the biggest screen in their home,” said Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus.

Livestream Jonas Brothers Concert Dates on Samsung TV Plus

Fans nationwide can livestream select dates from the “JONAS 20: Greetings From Your Hometown” tour on Entertainment Hub[3]:

• 11 | East Rutherford, NJ
• 31 | Dallas, TX
• 12 | Milwaukee, WI
• 26 | Orlando, FL
• 9 | Buffalo, NY

“JONAS20” on Samsung TV Plus delivers a front-row seat to the full concert experience, with immersive behind-the-scenes access and hometown tributes from Joe, Kevin and Nick Jonas. Fans can enjoy the experience individually, host viewing parties or connect with others virtually — with Samsung TV Plus as the destination for every song and unforgettable moment.

“This tour is about celebrating where we came from and sharing that with the fans who’ve been with us every step of the way,” said the Jonas Brothers. “Streaming it live on Samsung TV Plus means we get to include every fan, everywhere. No matter where you are, this is your hometown show.”

With over 17 million albums sold worldwide and GRAMMY® nominations for their multi-platinum hit “Sucker”[4] in 2020 and the “Best New Artist” category in 2009, the Jonas Brothers have cemented their place as global pop-rock icons. Their highly anticipated new album of the same name, “Greetings From Your Hometown,” will be released in Australia on Aug. 9, just days before their tour kicks off at MetLife stadium on Aug. 11 (AEST). The “JONAS 20 Greetings From Your Hometown” tour celebrates their legacy while deepening their connection with fans around the world.

Now, through their partnership with Samsung TV Plus, they’re expanding that connection even further, bringing the energy of their live shows directly into millions of living rooms and mobile devices.

How to Watch “JONAS 20: Greetings From Your Hometown”

Samsung TV Plus is available on select Samsung TVs[5], Smart Monitors[6], AI Home Refrigerator[7] and Family Hub[8] devices. This includes the 2025 TV series, which spans Samsung Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, OLED, The Frame and The Frame Pro, all powered by Samsung Vision AI[9] for AI enhanced picture and sound. The series also includes new personalised features that bring users closer to all the shows, movies and sports they love.

Fans across Australia can stream the live concerts from the JONAS 20: Greetings From Your Hometown tour in East Rutherford, Dallas, Milwaukee, Orlando and Buffalo on Samsung TV Plus’ Entertainment Hub channel[10].

[1] Available in Australia on all Smart TV models from 2017 onwards

[2] Times and dates will vary across regions. Australians can check their source guide for local streaming information. 

[3] The following times and dates may vary per region.

[4] Source from Universal Music

[5] Available in Australia on all Smart TV models from 2017 onwards

[6] Smart Monitor models include M5 (from 2022- 2024), M7 and M8 (from 2023- 2025), and M9 (2025)

[7] Available on 2025 AI Home SBS models released in 2025

[8] Available on Family Hub models released 2018- 2025

[9] Samsung Vision Al is only available on 2025 Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED, OLED, QLED and The Frame TV models. Samsung Vision Al features vary by TV model (excludes Crystal UHD, FHD and HD TV models).

[10] Available in Australia on all Smart TV models from 2017 onwards