Samsung’s free ad-supported streaming service, Samsung TV Plus, has expanded significantly, now reaching 88 million monthly active users, with global viewership growing by over 50% YoY. This is the first time Samsung has reported its app numbers. According to Samsung, this growth positions Samsung TV Plus as the number one app in the US on Samsung TVs, a category where Samsung maintains a leading market share.
Samsung’s US-based audience is led by Gen Z, Millennial, and Gen X viewers who reportedly over-index within the key 18-49 advertising demographic. Recently, Samsung has expanded Samsung TV Plus into new international markets, including Singapore and the Philippines, and anticipates launching soon in Thailand. The platform now spans 30 territories, a move Samsung says supports its long-term global growth strategy.
In light of rising subscription costs, more consumers are shifting to free streaming options, a trend Samsung highlights as beneficial to Samsung TV Plus. The service has become a favored distribution channel for several major media companies, sports leagues, independent studios, and content creators. Offering more than 3,000 channels and thousands of on-demand options, Samsung reports a 400% increase in global on-demand viewership year-over-year.
Salek Brodsky, Senior Vice President & General Manager at Samsung TV Plus, commented on the growth, stating that Samsung’s initial strategic decisions set the groundwork for what has become “a premium yet free streaming option” that continues to attract millions of viewers each month. Brodsky attributes the service’s popularity to its focus on “delivering a superior user experience with high-quality content that resonates with consumers.”
For advertisers, Samsung TV Plus offers access to audiences with targeted ad solutions through Samsung Ads, which includes Contextual Audience Collectives around top-performing content genres, as well as interactive ad options. The platform also over-indexes in prime viewing periods, particularly during primetime and late-night slots in the US, according to Samsung.
Samsung TV Plus is accessible on a range of Samsung devices, including Samsung TVs, Galaxy devices, Smart Monitors, and Family Hub products. The service includes advanced upscaling capabilities on compatible devices, such as the 2024 Neo QLED 8K, Neo QLED 4K, and OLED models.
