Blue Ant Media has partnered with content data platform Iris.TV to offer contextual audience targeting across all of its free ad-supported TV (FAST) channels globally.

Iris.TV’s platform is based on a content identifier, “IRIS_ID,” which helps structure and connect video-level data for accurate, privacy-first targeting. AI is also used to analyze videos frame-by-frame to determine contexual classifications related to elements such as sentiment, emotion, object recognition, celebrities, logos and brand safety. Advertisers on Blue Ant’s FAST channels will be able to use their own preferred brand suitability and contextual data partners to target connected TV inventory.

Iris.TV’s capabilities are meant to complement the work that Media Pulse, Blue Ant’s connected TV targeting company, is already doing on contextual targeting.

“Iris.TV’s technology not only enables us to offer better value to our advertisers, but also enriches the viewing experience for audiences by serving ads that are more relevant to them,” said Jamie Schouela, president of global channels and media at Blue Ant. “As more global viewers continue to discover our free streaming channels, this is the perfect time to be integrating with Iris.TV’s cutting edge data partner ecosystem and further optimize value for our brand partners.”

Blue Ant’s FAST channels include Love Nature, NatureTime, HauntTV, Total Crime, Homeful, HistoryTime, Love Pets and Drag Race Universe. FAST has been a growth priority for Blue Ant in recent years, growing its roster of channels and content, as well as bringing them to more connected TV platforms.