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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
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On her first day as ECW Director, Maysa Jalbout visits Lebanon to reaffirm ECW's commitment to the country's children, announce new emergency funding and mobilise urgent international support.
BEIRUT, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Education Cannot Wait (ECW) today reaffirmed their strong partnership with Lebanon's Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) to protect the right to education for children impacted by the rapidly escalating crisis in Lebanon.
During her first official mission as Director of ECW, Maysa Jalbout met with H.E. Minister Rima Karami, alongside the Inter-Agency Support Group (IASG) Education Sector co-leads UNICEF and Save the Children and civil society partners, to assess urgent needs and coordinate a swift, collective response to the crisis.
Lebanon is facing a severe humanitarian situation, with over one million people displaced and more than 250,000 children across the public school system experiencing disruption to their education. This latest escalation compounds years of overlapping crises including– economic collapse, the Beirut port explosion and the current escalation of regional conflict.
As part of this joint effort, ECW is launching an immediate emergency response that will focus on the areas most affected by the escalation of hostilities, ensuring safe access to learning, psychosocial support and protection services for the most vulnerable children.
In parallel, ECW will initiate the development of a new multi-year investment, expected to begin within the next six months, aimed at strengthening the resilience of Lebanon's education system and supporting sustainable learning outcomes.
Together, these investments are expected to reach more than 150,000 crisis-affected children and adolescents, prioritising those most at risk of exclusion.
"Education Cannot Wait – the global fund for education in crises – stands with the children of Lebanon. Education during crises is essential to children's mental health, protection and future. With our partners, we will do everything we can to help 150,000 children resume their learning," said Maysa Jalbout, Director of ECW. "The needs are far greater than any single actor can meet. While many donors continue providing multi-year support for children's access to quality and inclusive education in Lebanon, the gaps remain significant and require urgent additional support to reach all children."
H.E. Minister Rima Karami underscored the urgency of the moment and the need for a new way of working.
"Lebanon has carried the weight of successive crises for over many decades and today we are once again called to protect our children and our future. This crisis is not only creating new needs – it is threatening the very stability that the Lebanese people have sacrificed so much to maintain. We must act collectively, and we must act differently. Our partnership with Education Cannot Wait reflects this commitment, and we call on the international community to stand with us in scaling this effort," said the Minister of Education and Higher Education.
The new ECW-supported response will be guided by the following key priorities:
- Localisation and national ownership, with a strong commitment to channelling significant resources through local actors and partners.
- Equity and inclusion, ensuring equitable access to education for all children, with a particular focus on girls, children with disabilities and those most marginalised.
- Learning continuity and quality, supporting both immediate access and improved learning outcomes over time.
- Well-being and protection, integrating mental health and psychosocial support into education responses.
- Flexibility and adaptability, enabling rapid adjustment to evolving needs on the ground.
The initiative also presents a critical opportunity for additional partners to step forward. ECW and MEHE are calling on donor governments, philanthropic organisations, and the private sector to match and scale this effort, ensuring that the response meets the full scope of needs.
Notes to Editors
- ECW's investments to date in Lebanon total US$25.8 million, reaching 826,000 crisis-affected children and adolescents with access to safe, inclusive and quality education – including those displaced by the escalating regional conflict.
- B-roll and high-resolution photos are available here.
ABOUT EDUCATION CANNOT WAIT
Education Cannot Wait (ECW) is the global fund for education in crises. The Fund provides rapid, flexible funding to locally led education responses that protect learning for refugee, internally displaced and other children, while strengthening systems to sustain learning and resilience in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. ECW works with governments, public and private funders, UN agencies, civil society organisations, and other humanitarian and development aid actors so that no child is left behind.
As global crises intensify and the education financing gap widens, ECW calls on public and private sector partners to scale up investments so millions more crisis-affected girls and boys can learn and rebuild their futures.
Additional information available at: www.educationcannotwait.org
For press inquiries:
Estefanía Jiménez: esjimenez@un-ecw.org
On her first day as ECW Director, Maysa Jalbout visits Lebanon to reaffirm ECW's commitment to the country's children, announce new emergency funding and mobilise urgent international support.
BEIRUT, April 2, 2026 /PRNewswire/ -- Education Cannot Wait (ECW) today reaffirmed their strong partnership with Lebanon's Ministry of Education and Higher Education (MEHE) to protect the right to education for children impacted by the rapidly escalating crisis in Lebanon.
During her first official mission as Director of ECW, Maysa Jalbout met with H.E. Minister Rima Karami, alongside the Inter-Agency Support Group (IASG) Education Sector co-leads UNICEF and Save the Children and civil society partners, to assess urgent needs and coordinate a swift, collective response to the crisis.
Lebanon is facing a severe humanitarian situation, with over one million people displaced and more than 250,000 children across the public school system experiencing disruption to their education. This latest escalation compounds years of overlapping crises including– economic collapse, the Beirut port explosion and the current escalation of regional conflict.
As part of this joint effort, ECW is launching an immediate emergency response that will focus on the areas most affected by the escalation of hostilities, ensuring safe access to learning, psychosocial support and protection services for the most vulnerable children.
In parallel, ECW will initiate the development of a new multi-year investment, expected to begin within the next six months, aimed at strengthening the resilience of Lebanon's education system and supporting sustainable learning outcomes.
Together, these investments are expected to reach more than 150,000 crisis-affected children and adolescents, prioritising those most at risk of exclusion.
"Education Cannot Wait – the global fund for education in crises – stands with the children of Lebanon. Education during crises is essential to children's mental health, protection and future. With our partners, we will do everything we can to help 150,000 children resume their learning," said Maysa Jalbout, Director of ECW. "The needs are far greater than any single actor can meet. While many donors continue providing multi-year support for children's access to quality and inclusive education in Lebanon, the gaps remain significant and require urgent additional support to reach all children."
H.E. Minister Rima Karami underscored the urgency of the moment and the need for a new way of working.
"Lebanon has carried the weight of successive crises for over many decades and today we are once again called to protect our children and our future. This crisis is not only creating new needs – it is threatening the very stability that the Lebanese people have sacrificed so much to maintain. We must act collectively, and we must act differently. Our partnership with Education Cannot Wait reflects this commitment, and we call on the international community to stand with us in scaling this effort," said the Minister of Education and Higher Education.
The new ECW-supported response will be guided by the following key priorities:
- Localisation and national ownership, with a strong commitment to channelling significant resources through local actors and partners.
- Equity and inclusion, ensuring equitable access to education for all children, with a particular focus on girls, children with disabilities and those most marginalised.
- Learning continuity and quality, supporting both immediate access and improved learning outcomes over time.
- Well-being and protection, integrating mental health and psychosocial support into education responses.
- Flexibility and adaptability, enabling rapid adjustment to evolving needs on the ground.
The initiative also presents a critical opportunity for additional partners to step forward. ECW and MEHE are calling on donor governments, philanthropic organisations, and the private sector to match and scale this effort, ensuring that the response meets the full scope of needs.
Notes to Editors
- ECW's investments to date in Lebanon total US$25.8 million, reaching 826,000 crisis-affected children and adolescents with access to safe, inclusive and quality education – including those displaced by the escalating regional conflict.
- B-roll and high-resolution photos are available here.
ABOUT EDUCATION CANNOT WAIT
Education Cannot Wait (ECW) is the global fund for education in crises. The Fund provides rapid, flexible funding to locally led education responses that protect learning for refugee, internally displaced and other children, while strengthening systems to sustain learning and resilience in fragile and conflict-affected contexts. ECW works with governments, public and private funders, UN agencies, civil society organisations, and other humanitarian and development aid actors so that no child is left behind.
As global crises intensify and the education financing gap widens, ECW calls on public and private sector partners to scale up investments so millions more crisis-affected girls and boys can learn and rebuild their futures.
Additional information available at: www.educationcannotwait.org
For press inquiries:
Estefanía Jiménez: esjimenez@un-ecw.org
** This press release is distributed by PR Newswire through automated distribution system, for which the client assumes full responsibility. **
Education Cannot Wait Launches Urgent Support to Protect Learning for Crisis-Affected Children in Lebanon
