As streaming services continue to evolve, Google is set to revolutionize the landscape with its new advertising network, designed to fill free streaming TV channels with targeted ads.
This integration expands campaigns across Google TV networks and includes Google-owned ad inventory in third-party apps.
This service, called the Google TV network, allows advertisers to insert unskippable in-stream ads across over 125 live channels. Image from Jonas Leupe on Unsplash
Google Targeting a Growing Audience on Free Streaming Channels
Google is set to fill free streaming TV channels with ads as part of its new advertising network. Advertisers can now place targeted ads on Google TV-powered streaming devices and smart TVs, where more viewers are tuning into free streaming channels.
This service, called the Google TV network, allows advertisers to insert unskippable in-stream ads across over 125 live channels. Many of these channels are FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV), which Google has been actively promoting to users.
Google reported that 20 million monthly active devices use Google TV and Android TV OS, presenting a substantial audience for advertisers. This reach extends even further with YouTube, which has over 150 million monthly active viewers in living rooms.
Advertisers using Google Ads and Google Display & Video 360 can now expand their campaigns to include the Google TV network by selecting a new option under YouTube & Google.
This allows ads to spread across Google TV networks and include Google-owned ad inventory in third-party apps. According to Google, viewers of Google TV's free channels watch an average of 75 minutes daily.
FAST channels are gaining popularity quickly as they offer a cable-like experience without the cost. While the content often consists of reruns, many viewers enjoy having background noise, making it an ideal space for ads.
Google's new advertising network for free streaming TV channels on Google TV-powered devices and smart TVs offers advertisers a significant opportunity.
By placing unskippable in-stream ads across over 125 live channels, many of which are free ad-supported streaming TV (FAST) channels, Google is tapping into the growing popularity of free streaming services.
Google TV is adding a new "Find my remote" feature to help users locate their misplaced remote controls. This new functionality was revealed alongside Google's latest AI products at the recent Google I/O developer conference.
The feature is part of the latest Android TV update, Android 14 for TV. The update includes a button on Google TV that, when pressed, plays a sound on the remote for 30 seconds, making it easier to find.
This feature only works with supported Google TV remote controls, and the sound can be stopped by pressing any button on the remote. It works similarly to how we make our phones ring when we misplace them at home, offering a simple solution to a common problem.
Many users have long requested this functionality. Previously, they had to rely on various products, such as Bluetooth trackers, tracker tags, beepers, and stickers, to keep track of their remote controls. This new built-in feature will simplify the process and help ensure remotes are easily found around the house.
