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Streaming giant Amazon joining forces with Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) to introduce over 150 local PBS stations and PBS Kids programming as FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels.

Free streaming of over-the-air stations, including the PBS KIDS Channel, now accessible to Prime Video subscribers in the United States.

Amazon and PBS planning to debut over 150 local stations and PBS Kids as FAST (Free Ad-Supported...
Amazon and PBS planning to debut over 150 local stations and PBS Kids as FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming Television) channels

Streaming giant Amazon joining forces with Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) to introduce over 150 local PBS stations and PBS Kids programming as FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels.

PBS and Amazon have announced an exciting expansion of PBS programming on streaming services. Starting over the coming months, more than 150 local PBS stations and the PBS Kids channel will be available ad-free on Prime Video, thanks to the integration of Freevee.

Ryan Pirozzi, Prime Video Marketplace Head, expressed his enthusiasm about bringing PBS content to FAST channels. He sees this move as a significant step in making PBS programming more accessible to a broader audience.

The FAST offering on Prime Video includes PBS, PBS Kids, and local station content. This means that viewers can enjoy a diverse range of programming, from educational children's shows to thought-provoking documentaries and engaging dramas.

For members of local PBS stations, the launch of PBS FAST Channels on Prime Video opens up an extended library of programming via PBS Passport. Non-Prime users, on the other hand, will have free access to PBS programming under the "Watch for Free" section within Prime Video.

In a unique twist, the FAST Channels on Prime Video will also feature a "pop-up" channel, rotating classic PBS shows, starting with "Reading Rainbow." This adds an extra layer of excitement for viewers who love timeless PBS content.

The PBS FAST Channels on Prime Video are the PBS Drama and PBS Documentaries. Starting Nov. 26, these channels will be available exclusively on Prime Video, marking a significant milestone for PBS in delivering a curated lineup of programming from member stations to a broader FAST audience.

This launch is particularly noteworthy as it marks the first time this programming will be available for free on a major streaming service to customers across the country. It comes at a time when two in three U.S. viewers use ad-supported streaming platforms, indicating a growing demand for affordable, quality content.

FAST Channels on Amazon are accessible through Prime Video and Fire TV, making it even more convenient for viewers to access their favourite PBS shows. The FAST Channels on Prime Video offer a highly personalized experience and a leading selection of channels featuring various genres.

For more information about PBS Passport, viewers can visit the PBS Passport FAQ website or contact their local station directly. With this expansion, PBS is taking a significant step towards delivering its high-quality programming to a broader audience, making it more accessible than ever before.

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