A LinkedIn post cites FASTMaster Intelligence data showing that as of February 2026 there are 1,572 unique FAST channels across nine platforms, with Prime Video (824) and The Roku Channel (693) leading by channel count. It also highlights genre growth from 2020 to 2026, including Sports FAST channels rising from 38 to 115 (over 200% growth) and increased availability of Local News FAST channels.
FAST is shifting from “free TV alternative” to an oversupplied channel marketplace where distribution leverage matters as much as content. When Prime Video and Roku can each field hundreds of channels, the battle moves to EPG placement, recommendation systems, ad yield, and unified measurement—not just adding more feeds. Sports’ 200%+ growth shows buyers are packaging live-ish inventory and shoulder programming without paying top-tier rights. Meanwhile, Local News FAST is becoming a civic and commercial wedge: a low-CAC audience play with highly targetable local ad demand. The meme: channel count is the new app count—until discovery breaks.
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