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56% of US adults think ad breaks on free-ad supported streaming TV (FAST) services should be under 30 seconds, according to an August 2023 ViewNexa survey.

It’s been a year since Netflix launched its “Basic With Ads” tier, joining an increasingly cluttered landscape of ad-supported streaming platforms. Netflix leveraged a year of solid connected TV (CTV) ad spend growth, cost-conscious consumers, and Hollywood strikes that emphasized the value of a deep existing catalog to grow its ad supported plan to 15 million global monthly active users, according to a company post. Here’s a look at what’s new, what’s working, and what needs more attention at Netflix.

AMC edges up, Tubi soars, Fubo holds ground, Paramount+ expands: Diverse strategies shape the streaming battlefront.

Sunday Ticket propels YouTube TV to 48% growth: The pay TV service has seen subscriptions jump significantly since it acquired the costly streaming rights.

Netflix’s new ad format rewards binge-watching: Users who view three episodes will get one ad-free in a bid to reduce ad loads and increase time spent.

Disney’s parks business buoys its streaming venture: The company saw TV ad revenue declines that could further push it to offload linear assets.

Hollywood strikes are taking a toll on streamer earnings: Warner Bros. Discovery posted heavy losses and poor subscriber growth.

Connected TV (CTV) ad spend will exceed $30 billion in the US next year, according to our forecast. At a growth rate of 22.4% YoY, that makes CTV one of the fastest-growing ad formats we track. But where those ad dollars are coming from isn’t so simple.

32% of US adults are watching subscription video-on-demand (SVOD) services less because they are watching more on free streaming services, per a July 2023 Aluma Insights survey. For 34% of US adults, viewing behaviors across streaming services haven’t changed as a result of free streaming services.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss how much audiobooks can move the needle for Spotify, how engaging its app is versus Netflix and TikTok, and how much of its podcast success is tied to Joe Rogan. "In Other News," we talk about how badly AI can hurt your company's customer service and why Google has called for a ban on personalized ads for minors. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Daniel Konstantinovic.

Rising costs and channel fragmentation hurt sports engagement: Survey highlights a need to enhance discoverability and affordability.

YouTube’s anti-ad blocking campaign sparks a user outcry: The company is raising ad-free pricing in multiple markets shortly after banning ad blockers.

Amazon leaks show the power of football streaming rights: The company expects two new ad products for Thursday Night Football to bring in $100 million this year.

Disney acquires Comcast's 33% Hulu stake: The move solidifies its standing in the shifting streaming landscape.

On today's podcast episode, we discuss the ongoing antitrust trial between Google and the Department of Justice, why Google should be looking over its shoulder at Amazon, and what to make of YouTube's most recent performance. "In Other News," we talk about why Google Maps is becoming more like Search and the most important thing going on in affiliate marketing. Tune in to the discussion with our analyst Max Willens.

Netflix ad tier hits 15 million subscribers: The ad-supported subscription gained 10 million new subscribers since May thanks to password-sharing changes.

Roku posts strong Q3 revenues growth, attributes to content, ads, and new TVs: ARPU drops as losses mount, but the company remains optimistic amid streaming challenges.

Lawsuits surrounding Nokia’s $152 billion R&D-driven patent arsenal come amid job cuts and falling sales. HP’s and Amazon’s brand reputations are at stake.

Only 2.2 million Netflix subscribers play its games daily: Games could bring advantages, but high costs and long production times are a struggle.

Best Buy, TikTok take diverging approaches to live commerce: But getting viewers to tune in remains a serious challenge, regardless of whether retailers focus on education or entertainment.