Christmas has come early for the advertising investors of Samsung TV Plus - Samsung’s free, ad-supported streaming TV service: from today, Dec. 13, 10 channels of Warner Bros. Discovery, the third-largest publisher by share in Italy.

Following the launch of major "journalistic" partnerships with the likes of CNN, Samsung Europe announces its first major deal for entertainment and lifestyle content by bringing some of the celebrated American giant's most beloved free-to-air entertainment programs to the streaming app.

An important innovation that, in addition to increasing and diversifying the FAST offering by offering TV genres for all ages, expands the inventory, and thus the engagement opportunities, available to brands.

Enjoying the partnership, however, will not only be advertisers. The introduction of these new channels will, in fact, also be appreciated by viewers - at a particularly busy time of year in terms of viewing. According to data from Samsung Ads Europe in 2022, time spent on Samsung Smart TVs in December was 17 percent higher than the annual average, with 2.1 hours of streaming per device per day.

Of the 10 new channels, two are Warner Bros. Discovery’s flagships - Nove and Real Time, the #9 and #12 national channel on free-to-air, respectively.

Nove will feature shows such as Che Tempo Che Fa, Fratelli di Crozza, Little Big Italy, Cash or trash and Don’t forget the lyrics, whilst Real Time will offer viewers the chance to catch-up on the Italian versions of popular global programmes like Bake Off Italy, First Dates Italy, and Married at First Sight Italy, as well as home-grown favourites Cortesie per gli ospiti and the phenomenon Flat Hunters.

Catering to diverse audiences with diverse hobbies and passions are four new special interest channels, including DMAX, Motor Trend, Food Network and HGTV. Programs include Il Boss del Paranormal Boss, Operation NAS, all exclusive WWE matches, Naked and Afraid, Airport Security, Wheelers Dealers, Fatto in casa per voi, Property Brothers, to name a few.

Giallo and Warner TV will serve the best of Warner Bros. Discovery’s scripted series including Midsomer Murders, Vera and Murdoch Mysteries, Supernatural, Smallville, Willy, and The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.

For younger audiences, K2 and Frisbee - free-to-air channels - will offer hit programs such as Alvinnn!!!, Pokemon and Total drama, Curious George, Super Wings and Mega Game DinsiemE.

Cristina Sala, Italy country lead for Samsung TV Plus said: “This move not only reflects the growth of BroadFAST within the Italian and European streaming landscape, but also solidifies its integral role in the total TV viewing experience. By introducing 10 rebroadcast channels from Warner Bros. Discovery, Samsung TV Plus is at the forefront of meeting the evolving preferences of modern TV viewers, offering a diverse array of high-quality content. There is a growing demand for accessible, ad-supported streaming options, and as a leader in the ever-expanding realm of streaming we are proud to help shape and redefine the entertainment landscape, in tandem with our partners.”

Angel Yllera, VP of TV licensing, affiliate sales and digital distribution from Warners Bros. Discovery also commented: “As the third largest Italian broadcaster, we are excited to bring a selection of our most beloved channels to Samsung TV Plus. This partnership reflects our commitment to delivering high-quality content to audiences everywhere and our range of programs ensures content suitable for every type of viewer.

From gripping crime mysteries to heartwarming family shows, our diverse range of programming ensures that there’s something for everyone.

This agreement allows us to contribute to Samsung TV Plus programming and enrich the offer to Italian viewers during this festive season, and beyond.

Alex Hole, general manager, Europe at Samsung Electronics also added: “As one of the earliest adopters of FAST, Samsung has been able to shape FAST’s impact and growth in Europe - which underscores our commitment to innovation and improving consumer experiences. Partnerships such as this with Warner Bros. Discovery are two-fold; it shows how we are adapting and catering to consumer preferences and behaviours, whilst simultaneously creating valuable opportunities for brands to engage with these audiences.  Samsung TV Plus stands as a dynamic platform that surpasses conventional content delivery. And when paired with the services from our other areas of the business, we are able to provide a truly holistic approach to brands’ modern media needs.”