Virgin Media O2 has expanded its FAST (free ad-supported streaming television) channel line-up with the addition of three Rakuten TV channels to its service.
The new channels, Rakuten TV Drama, Rakuten TV Comedy and Rakuten TV Sci-Fi, are now available to Virgin TV customers at no additional cost. They are accessible via the EPG, searchable using voice control, and available on Virgin TV 360 and Flex set-top boxes without requiring customers to take any action.
The launch brings the total number of FAST channels on Virgin TV to 40, alongside existing services including British Screen Classics, Inside Crime and U&Transport.
Rakuten TV Drama includes films such as The Big Short, Gosford Park and JFK. Rakuten TV Comedy (Ch463) features titles including Big Momma’s House, The Internship (pictured) and Bedazzled. Rakuten TV Sci-Fi (Ch464) includes films such as The Fountain and Predestination. In addition, Virgin TV customers can access on-demand films and TV content via the Rakuten TV app, available at no extra cost.
David Bouchier, chief TV and entertainment officer at Virgin Media O2, said: “FAST channels are becoming an increasingly important part of how viewers discover and watch content. Adding three new Rakuten TV channels expands the range of free-to-view programming available on our platform and supports our aim to bring together live, on-demand and streaming content in one place for customers.”
Sidharth Jayant, chief product officer at Rakuten TV, added: “This launch builds on our existing relationship with Virgin Media O2 and extends the reach of Rakuten TV’s FAST portfolio in the UK. Making these channels available allows us to scale distribution and offer viewers greater access to free, ad-supported content.”
The latest additions form part of Virgin Media O2’s broader FAST channel strategy, as the company continues to expand its free-to-view offering.
