David Imel / Android Authority
TL; DR
Google could soon add free TV channels to Google TV on its partner smart TVs and its own streaming hardware, which could make recording a Chromecast a little more appealing to cable users.
Google has already had discussions with free, ad-supported streaming TV distribution channels (FAST) pro a. guided protocol Report. These channels would be offered alongside the company’s current paid services, from YouTube TV to a variety of additional supported streaming platforms. These FAST channels would also have commercial breaks and watermarks on the screen, much like linear channels that you can access with an antenna. The report adds that Chromecast users may be able to browse these channels through a dedicated live TV menu.
See also: Samsung TV Plus – Everything about the free streaming service
The rumored move comes after TV makers and content providers like Samsung, Amazon, and Roku saw a surge in the popularity of the FAST channels. It’s unclear which channels Google could add to its platform, but the additions will nonetheless give potential buyers yet another reason to grab the company’s streaming hardware.
As for the rumored start date, protocol suggests that Google could announce the feature in the coming months, but posits a debut in early 2022, in line with TV makers.