Free streaming is having a moment, with services likeTubi,The Roku ChannelandPluto TVreaching an ever-growing audience of millions of viewers. In fact the number of FAST TV users in key markets (including the US, Canada, and parts of Europe) has doubled in just the past two years (perAdWeek), and could easily double again by 2026.
This week we saw two major developments in the FAST space with Google TV now mandating afree TV buttonfor all future streaming devices, and MyFree DIRECTV adding Scripps News channels, pushing its total free streaming channel count past 100. These two developments might not seem linked at first, but they’re part of a wider pattern that finds free streaming services becoming not just more diverse in what they offer, but more easily accessible as well.
It’s impossible to know exactly what will happen, but with FAST services claiming more and more streaming hours, it’s clear that the larger streaming world may be in for some disruption in the coming months.
If YouTube TV just disappeared from your Roku, don’t panic
The YouTube TV app has suddenly disappeared for some Roku users.
Sling TV offering deals on sports-focused subscriptions
Watch the NBA playoffs for less
Certain Sling TV subscribers may be getting a $2500 check soon
The Last of Us gets surprise season 3 renewal before season 2 starts
I was very impressed with the first season of HBO’s The Last of Us, as felt it was a mostly-faithful retelling of one of the most impactful games of a generation, largely following the events of the first game beat for beat with some smart extra character development and world-building along the way. I previously thought the upcoming second season (which debuts this Sunday at 9PM) would adapt the second game in the same way, but it looks like we’ll be in this world a little longer, as HBO has confirmed that a third season of the series has now been greenlit. Given this, game players probably have a good idea of where season 2 will end, which means we’re likely in for a lot of padding. That’s not automatically a bad thing as there’s plenty of opportunities to expand the story, but I do wonder how long this series will stretch (and how interest in the third season will change if season 2 ends where I think it will).
This cheap bundle with free Max might be the best deal in streaming
DirecTV has upgraded its MyEntertainment skinny TV bundle at no extra cost.
Apple TV+ is hoping for their next smash hit with Murderbot
A new trailer promises hilarious action and plenty of social commentary
Apple TV+has leaned into its reputation as one of the best streamers around for sci-fi and its latest series, Murderbot, looks like it will provide viewers with something a little less serious than Severance and Silo. The series is described by Apple as a “sci-fi thriller/comedy about a self-hacking security construct who is horrified by human emotion yet drawn to its vulnerable clients.” Starring Alexander Skarsgård (who also executive produces), the series follows the titular robot as it tries to figure out its place in the universe (and also find time binge watch its favorite shows). You can check out the trailer for this new series below.
This Apple TV+ deal gives you 3 months for less than the price of a latte
