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Samsung Tech Forum series continues at CES 2026 with industry leaders convening to explore the evolution of streaming
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. yesterday held "FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV" as part of its Tech Forum panel series at CES 2026. Taking place at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada, the panel brought together leaders from entertainment and media to explore the evolution of streaming and the rapid rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST).
The session highlighted the interconnected relationship between today's rapidly evolving consumer behaviors and preferences, the transformation of content by technology and monetization models, the expanding role of creators as studios and the ways in which interactive and live experiences are catalyzing a shift from passive viewing into active engagement.
Moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, the panel featured Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh and Bruce Casino, EVP, Sales & Distribution, U.S., NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.
FAST Gains Momentum as Audiences Recalibrate Value
As audiences grapple with subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming landscape, the panel focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television. Samsung TV Plus anchored the conversation as a platform designed to reduce friction, offering hundreds of live and on-demand channels in one free, easily accessible experience across Samsung TVs and devices worldwide.
"The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer," said SVP Brodsky. "Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again and combine the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless, curated and truly valuable."
The panelists emphasized that FAST has evolved into a core part of the streaming ecosystem, complementing subscription and traditional models while delivering premium, proven programming at scale. For Samsung TV Plus, that evolution is rooted in shared experiences that elevate viewing and meet users not just where they already are, but where they want to be.
Hybrid Models Redefine the Streaming Ecosystem
Panelists emphasized that the evolution of streaming is less about replacing traditional models and more about expanding how audiences engage with content. FAST, subscription and linear distribution models are increasingly working in tandem, allowing studios to extend the life of proven franchises, reach new viewers and unlock additional value without sacrificing performance elsewhere. By leveraging data, audience behavior and decades of content insight, media companies are deploying FAST to complement existing channels and create a more resilient and diversified ecosystem.
EVP Bruce Casino highlighted how this approach has enabled NBCUniversal to bring both classic and contemporary content to FAST audiences while continuing to see strong performance across platforms. "FAST doesn't replace traditional distribution, it extends it," said Casino. "What we're seeing is that when great content shows up in multiple places, it creates incremental value rather than cannibalization — allowing franchises to thrive across FAST, streaming and linear channels."
Creators Emerge as the New Studios
The panel also examined how the changing nature of consumer habits and television platforms means content creators do not have to work exclusively with legacy studios to reach a broad audience. As this medium expands from social platforms to the living room, FAST is helping bridge digital culture and traditional TV, while also serving to elevate its production quality.
Samsung TV Plus was highlighted as a platform that helps creators evolve from digital-first brands into full-fledged television studios, helping expand reach, unlock new monetization opportunities and introduce content to broader, global audiences.
One of the clearest examples of a brand that has taken the step from digital-first brand to legitimate TV studio is sketch comedy-improv collective Smosh. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, Smosh has been able to strengthen its connection with its already-dedicated fans while gaining access to a much larger viewer base. Due to this evolution, Smosh has enhanced long-term growth.
"Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand," said CEO Alessandra Catanese. "It was the right platform to help us reach a broader audience while positioning our content in a premium environment that supports where we're headed as a company."
Live and Interactive Experiences Drive Engagement
Looking beyond on-demand viewing, panelists discussed how live programming like concerts and interactivity are reshaping the television experience by creating shared moments that audiences actively participate in.
With features such as synchronized premieres and real-time participation, technology is transforming television from a passive activity into an interactive experience — fostering connection, excitement and a sense of belonging that brings viewers together organically.Together, the panelists agreed that the future of television will be defined by flexibility, cultural connection and experiences that invite participation, not just consumption.
"Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most," said SVP Brodsky. "That's why we're investing in live events, creator programming and interactive formats that remind people why TV has always been the center of the home."
As streaming continues to evolve, Samsung is focused on helping shape a TV ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunity for creators and scale for advertisers, — redefining what television can be in 2026 and beyond.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.
About Samsung TV Plus
Samsung TV Plus is a premium global entertainment service committed to delivering exceptional experiences for everyone and every moment. As a leader in FAST with more than 88 million monthly active users, Samsung TV Plus offers thousands of shows and movies on-demand all in one place. Globally, the streaming service carries over 3,500 ad-supported linear channels in 30 countries and is accessible on over 630M active Samsung devices. Samsung TV Plus is the exclusive FAST home to curated channels and live events including the Jonas Brothers' JONAS 20 Tour, Letterman TV, Conan O'Brien TV, The Ringer from Spotify, BillboardTV, and top digital Creators featuring Mark Rober TV, Dhar Mann TV and Michelle Khare's Challenge Accepted. Samsung TV Plus is available on Samsung TVs, Galaxy devices, Samsung Smart Monitor, and Family Hub, all subscription-free. To learn more, visit samsungtvplus.com. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.
Samsung Tech Forum series continues at CES 2026 with industry leaders convening to explore the evolution of streaming
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. yesterday held "FAST Forward: How New Streaming Models Are Shaping the Next Generation of TV" as part of its Tech Forum panel series at CES 2026. Taking place at The Wynn in Las Vegas, Nevada, the panel brought together leaders from entertainment and media to explore the evolution of streaming and the rapid rise of free-ad-supported television (FAST).
The session highlighted the interconnected relationship between today's rapidly evolving consumer behaviors and preferences, the transformation of content by technology and monetization models, the expanding role of creators as studios and the ways in which interactive and live experiences are catalyzing a shift from passive viewing into active engagement.
Moderated by Natalie Jarvey of The Ankler, the panel featured Salek Brodsky, SVP and Global Head of Samsung TV Plus; Alessandra Catanese, CEO of Smosh and Bruce Casino, EVP, Sales & Distribution, U.S., NBCUniversal Global TV Distribution.
FAST Gains Momentum as Audiences Recalibrate Value
As audiences grapple with subscription fatigue and a fragmented streaming landscape, the panel focused on how FAST is restoring simplicity and value to television. Samsung TV Plus anchored the conversation as a platform designed to reduce friction, offering hundreds of live and on-demand channels in one free, easily accessible experience across Samsung TVs and devices worldwide.
"The TV experience today can often feel like too much work for the viewer," said SVP Brodsky. "Our goal with Samsung TV Plus is to simplify television again and combine the power of linear discovery with a modern, connected experience that feels effortless, curated and truly valuable."
The panelists emphasized that FAST has evolved into a core part of the streaming ecosystem, complementing subscription and traditional models while delivering premium, proven programming at scale. For Samsung TV Plus, that evolution is rooted in shared experiences that elevate viewing and meet users not just where they already are, but where they want to be.
Hybrid Models Redefine the Streaming Ecosystem
Panelists emphasized that the evolution of streaming is less about replacing traditional models and more about expanding how audiences engage with content. FAST, subscription and linear distribution models are increasingly working in tandem, allowing studios to extend the life of proven franchises, reach new viewers and unlock additional value without sacrificing performance elsewhere. By leveraging data, audience behavior and decades of content insight, media companies are deploying FAST to complement existing channels and create a more resilient and diversified ecosystem.
EVP Bruce Casino highlighted how this approach has enabled NBCUniversal to bring both classic and contemporary content to FAST audiences while continuing to see strong performance across platforms. "FAST doesn't replace traditional distribution, it extends it," said Casino. "What we're seeing is that when great content shows up in multiple places, it creates incremental value rather than cannibalization — allowing franchises to thrive across FAST, streaming and linear channels."
Creators Emerge as the New Studios
The panel also examined how the changing nature of consumer habits and television platforms means content creators do not have to work exclusively with legacy studios to reach a broad audience. As this medium expands from social platforms to the living room, FAST is helping bridge digital culture and traditional TV, while also serving to elevate its production quality.
Samsung TV Plus was highlighted as a platform that helps creators evolve from digital-first brands into full-fledged television studios, helping expand reach, unlock new monetization opportunities and introduce content to broader, global audiences.
One of the clearest examples of a brand that has taken the step from digital-first brand to legitimate TV studio is sketch comedy-improv collective Smosh. By launching a FAST channel with Samsung TV Plus, Smosh has been able to strengthen its connection with its already-dedicated fans while gaining access to a much larger viewer base. Due to this evolution, Smosh has enhanced long-term growth.
"Partnering with Samsung TV Plus allowed us to elevate our production quality and invest in the future of the Smosh brand," said CEO Alessandra Catanese. "It was the right platform to help us reach a broader audience while positioning our content in a premium environment that supports where we're headed as a company."
Live and Interactive Experiences Drive Engagement
Looking beyond on-demand viewing, panelists discussed how live programming like concerts and interactivity are reshaping the television experience by creating shared moments that audiences actively participate in.
With features such as synchronized premieres and real-time participation, technology is transforming television from a passive activity into an interactive experience — fostering connection, excitement and a sense of belonging that brings viewers together organically.Together, the panelists agreed that the future of television will be defined by flexibility, cultural connection and experiences that invite participation, not just consumption.
"Authentic content that creates cultural connection and brings people together is what matters most," said SVP Brodsky. "That's why we're investing in live events, creator programming and interactive formats that remind people why TV has always been the center of the home."
As streaming continues to evolve, Samsung is focused on helping shape a TV ecosystem that delivers value for viewers, opportunity for creators and scale for advertisers, — redefining what television can be in 2026 and beyond.
About Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.
Samsung inspires the world and shapes the future with transformative ideas and technologies. The company is redefining the worlds of TVs, digital signage, smartphones, wearables, tablets, home appliances and network systems, as well as memory, system LSI and foundry. Samsung is also advancing medical imaging technologies, HVAC solutions and robotics, while creating innovative automotive and audio products through Harman. With its SmartThings ecosystem, open collaboration with partners, and integration of AI across its portfolio, Samsung delivers a seamless and intelligent connected experience. For the latest news, please visit the Samsung Newsroom at news.samsung.com.
About Samsung TV Plus
Samsung TV Plus is a premium global entertainment service committed to delivering exceptional experiences for everyone and every moment. As a leader in FAST with more than 88 million monthly active users, Samsung TV Plus offers thousands of shows and movies on-demand all in one place. Globally, the streaming service carries over 3,500 ad-supported linear channels in 30 countries and is accessible on over 630M active Samsung devices. Samsung TV Plus is the exclusive FAST home to curated channels and live events including the Jonas Brothers' JONAS 20 Tour, Letterman TV, Conan O'Brien TV, The Ringer from Spotify, BillboardTV, and top digital Creators featuring Mark Rober TV, Dhar Mann TV and Michelle Khare's Challenge Accepted. Samsung TV Plus is available on Samsung TVs, Galaxy devices, Samsung Smart Monitor, and Family Hub, all subscription-free. To learn more, visit samsungtvplus.com. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, X and LinkedIn.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
Samsung Outlines the Impact FAST, Creators and Live Experiences Are Having on the Future of Television at CES 2026
Supporting industrial transformation through embodied intelligence
LAS VEGAS, Jan. 7, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- ENGINEAI Robotics Technology, a developer of embodied intelligence systems, showcased two flagship products at CES 2026. These included the PM01, a lightweight and highly mobile general-purpose embodied agent, and the ENGINEAI T800, a full-scale, high-efficiency universal humanoid robot making its global debut. The demonstration highlighted the performance capabilities of both platforms, while offering industry observers a practical, application-oriented perspective on the emerging potential of human-robot collaboration.
As one of the world's largest and most influential consumer technology exhibitions, CES serves as both a global stage for introducing cutting-edge products and a benchmark for technological trends. This year, embodied intelligence moved to the forefront, shifting from a largely conceptual framework to deployable systems and signaling the industry's rapid progression toward a more autonomous, intelligently collaborative future.
The ENGINEAI booth attracted steady visitor interest through live demonstrations of the T800 and PM01, highlighting full-body coordination and fine motor control capabilities. The demonstrations prompted in-depth technical exchanges with industry partners, developers, and media representatives, who discussed practical deployment scenarios and potential collaboration opportunities. Overall engagement reflected ongoing industry attention to embodied intelligence applications and the evolving role of human–robot collaboration across multiple sectors.
Building on its proven adaptability to real-world settings, the PM01 is advancing toward scaled deployment in multiple application areas, including public transportation, guided tours and retail services, and automated patrols and inspection tasks. With practicality and use-case-driven design as its core strengths, the PM01 effectively addresses concrete operational needs in intelligent transformation initiatives across industries, reinforcing the practical role of embodied intelligence in supporting industrial advancement. Its stable, repeatable performance was widely acknowledged by event attendees.
The ENGINEAI T800 generated significant interest across the robotics community and prompted extensive discussion. This humanoid robot illustrates ENGINEAI's capabilities in key robotics subsystems and system-level integration. As a next-generation intelligent platform designed for real-world deployment, the T800 is equipped with a fully-integrated, high-torque joint module architecture capable of delivering up to 450 N•m of peak torque and 14,000 W of instantaneous joint peak power. Combined with high-degree-of-freedom joint structures in key areas such as the neck, waist, and hands, the robot achieves a high level of anthropomorphic mobility. In high-dynamic scenarios like martial arts and running, it delivers industry-leading dynamic output and load-handling capability.
Looking ahead to 2026, ENGINEAI will continue to focus on core technology development and long-term product strategy, with the objective of driving iterative advancement and expanding real-world application scenarios, guided by a focus on building solid foundations for impact-driven innovation. While further strengthening its existing product portfolio, ENGINEAI plans to align more closely with global market requirements to accelerate product refinement. Through an open and scalable approach to embodied intelligence, the company aims to leverage its technical capabilities to help shape the next phase of human-robot collaboration.
** The press release content is from PR Newswire. Bastille Post is not involved in its creation. **
ENGINEAI Robotics Technology Introduces the T800 Humanoid Robot at CES 2026
ENGINEAI Robotics Technology Introduces the T800 Humanoid Robot at CES 2026
