Google TV is doubling down on its free, ad-supported TV (FAST) offerings with the launch of “Freeplay,” a new home for its growing library of free channels.
The tech giant first rolled out FAST channels to Google TV devices in early 2023, starting with 80 channels. Since then, the selection has steadily grown to its current count of 150 channels.
“Freeplay” is now rolling out to Google TV devices in the US, including Chromecast and TVs from TCL, Hisense, and other manufacturers. The new branding will be prominently featured under the “Live” tab of the Google TV homescreen.
While the branding change doesn’t impact the functionality of the free channels, it does suggest that Google TV has bigger plans for free content in the future. It’s possible that other free content, such as free on-demand movies from YouTube, could eventually be integrated into “Freeplay.”
For now, “Freeplay” remains focused on free TV channels, offering users an ever-expanding selection of ad-supported content.
