Roku will launch its first free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels on the Roku platform in the UK market.
The UK launch builds on Roku’s rollout of FAST channels in North and South America, where The Roku Channel provides free streaming. The launch also provides advertisers with a way to connect with viewers through personalised advertising campaigns within a streaming environment.
Rolling out in October 2025, the 40 FAST channels are curated around popular series and genres, with content spanning entertainment, lifestyle, true crime, classic TV and documentaries. New offerings include Professional Golfers' Association (PGA) Tour for golf, This Old House for home and garden, Unsolved Mysteries for crime, NatureTime for wildlife, Love Pets for animals, and more.
“With the launch of our first FAST channels in the UK this October, we’re giving viewers more choice than ever before – from iconic series and films to new favourites and niche genres – all for free,” said Richard Halton, Country Manager of Roku UK. “It’s an exciting step forward as we continue to expand and open up new opportunities for advertisers to reach highly engaged audiences.”
Adrian Pennington recently interviewed how Tom Price, Director of Content Distribution at Roku, is thinking about the value of out-of-app content discovery. Discover more here.
Host Broadcast Services’ top leadership to leave after 2026 FIFA World Cup
The two top executives of Infront’s subsidiary Host Broadcast Services (HBS), CEO Dan Miodownik and Chief Operating Officer (COO) Luc-Antoine Charial, will step down from their respective positions as of 30 September 2026.
Netflix opens animation studio in Vancouver
Netflix Animation Studios (NAS) has opened a 110,600ft2 studio in Vancouver, British Columbia.
AI use rivals social media activity in UK adults, Ofcom finds
Adults have become less active on social media, according to new research by Ofcom.
US works dominate European VOD catalogues
US films and TV shows account for almost half of content available on video on demand platforms in Europe according to a new study by European Audiovisual Observatory (EAO).
Netflix launches Playground gaming app for young children
Netflix has launched a new gaming app called Netflix Playground that is aimed at children aged eight and under.

.jpg)

