Samsung TV Plus expands its FAST children’s programming

The service's new content slate includes programs featuring popular characters such as Barbie and Barney.

Samsung TV Plus is adding 29 FAST children’s channels to its programming.

The new slate of family-friendly channels includes Fireman Sam, which follows the adventures of a brave firefighter who protects the city and teaches kids about safety and teamwork; Barney and Friends, which shows the return of the purple dinosaur with a new look; Caillou, about a curious four-year-old who inspires viewers to grow emotionally; BBC Kids, which airs popular shows like Hey Duggee (pictured), Horrible Histories and Andy’s Dinosaur Adventures; and Barbie and Friends, which is focused on fashion, friendship and the exciting adventures of the main characters.

The platform will also launch summer-themed episodes such as Caillou: Summer Challenges; KidCity Ultimate Mishmash; Strawberry Shortcake: The Berry Best Vacation; Teletubbies: The Beach; and Sabrina, The Animated Series: Enchanted Vacation.

According to Samsung, its free ad-supported streaming service has grown more than 60% year-over-year in Canada. The company plans to continue expanding its FAST offering with additional programming, including new reality shows, animated series, French-language channels, music, news, and content from major sports leagues such as the MLB. The service recently added an expanded set of channels from A+E Networks, including Duck Dynasty, Dog the Bounty Hunter and Tiny House Nation. It also partnered with Bell Media to add 10 channels in English and French in April.

In its recently released research, Samsung showed that 49% of Canadian viewers who use smart TVs watch FAST channels and six in ten have used the format for the first time in the last seven months.