Amagi CONNECT is a one-stop solution that connects content providers with TV platforms for the distribution and monetisation of FAST channels. Announced this month, it enables both sides of the ecosystem to sign off on pre-agreed commercial terms and then launch FAST channels quickly.
A large and growing catalogue of FAST channels can be accessed by platforms, which can range from Smart TVs to Pay TV and virtual MVPDs. Amagi, the cloud-based SaaS innovator with an established FAST heritage, says platforms can easily request to connect with a channel and expand their content offerings.
“Similarly, content partners can pitch their channel to a platform and request a connection. When both parties agree, Amagi promptly creates a new content delivery route.”
The initial connection is only part of the solution, which also includes a FAST Delivery Tracker that offers end-to-end visibility into the channel delivery process. There is also comprehensive performance analytics for each channel, giving content providers and platforms valuable insights to optimise their content and drive revenue growth.
Amagi says CONNECT has become the preferred choice for many FAST platforms, including LG Channels, Plex, TCL, VIDAA Free, Rakuten TV, Xiaomi, Redbox, Canela and Netgem. More than 150 content providers are using the platform. These include Blue Ant Media, TIME, Tastemade, eOne, Washington Post, DraftKings, and NEW ID. “They can expand their audience reach and increase their monetisation opportunities, the vendor says.
Marcos Milanez, Chief Content Officer at Rakuten TV, confirms that, “Amagi CONNECT has become an important driver in our FAST growth, already providing us with dozens of channels across all markets. The simple and intuitive marketplace experience has allowed us to tick all the boxes we need to launch channels on our platform quickly and efficiently.”
Haohong Wang, General Manager, TCL Research America, has also provided a testimonial for Amagi CONNECT, saying that, “Expanding our content slate has been quicker and easier than ever with this solution. The ability to easily connect with new channels on the marketplace and track their delivery and performance has been a huge time saver. It allows us to experiment as viewership and engagement on our platform grows.”
Julio Sobral, SVP Channel Distribution at Blue Ant Media, adds: “Building great relationships with platforms internationally is a huge part of our growth strategy. With support from Amagi’s CONNECT marketplace, we are already seeing opportunities to connect some of our FAST brands with platforms.”
Johan Kim, VP and Co-Founder, NEW ID, states that “as the demand for Korean and Asian content continues to grow globally, it’s absolutely imperative we have our finger on the pulse of new FAST distribution opportunities. Amagi CONNECT allows us to discover existing and emerging platforms and services and launch easily to expand the growth of our FAST channel portfolio.”