Simplestream Powers CBS AMC Networks UK Channels Partnership to Launch SSAI on Freely with Sky Media

Simplestream, the award-winning provider of next-generation OTT and hybrid-TV solutions, today announced a major milestone in its collaboration with CBS AMC Networks UK Channels Partnership, a joint venture between AMC Networks International UK (AMCNI UK) and Paramount, enabling the deployment of server-side ad insertion (SSAI) across the Partnership’s linear IP channels on Freely.

Over the past year, Simplestream has been working with many broadcasters by helping them transition linear broadcast channels into the Freely ecosystem to complement their traditional DTT distribution with over a dozen channels. Building on this foundation, Simplestream has now deepened its integration with advertising technology platforms, giving AMCNI UK the ability to introduce dynamically inserted and addressable advertising across its channel portfolio.

With SSAI in place, AMCNI UK can seamlessly replace standard broadcast adverts, both on a centre break or spot basis, with live, dynamically inserted adverts delivered via IP, enhancing viewer relevance and engagement, enabling channels and advertisers to unlock higher CPMs through more flexible and scalable ad delivery.

Lucy Halliday, Business Development Director at AMC Networks International UK, commented “This milestone marks a significant step forward for AMCNI UK as we enhance our Freely presence with creative and innovative advertising solutions across TRUE CRIME, TRUE CRIME XTRA, LEGEND and LEGEND XTRA. By combining advanced ad-monetisation and cloud-based video workflows, Simplestream is helping us shape a new standard for hybrid TV, where viewers benefit from a more seamless ad experience and we can unlock new and future avenues for channel growth and revenue.”

Lewis Arthur, Chief Product Officer at Simplestream, noted “Until now, AMCNI UK’s audiences on Freely received identical adverts across both broadcast and IP streams. With Simplestream’s SSAI technology, channels can now support dynamic and addressable ad delivery, bringing Freely in line with modern digital advertising standards and significantly increasing commercial value for content owners.”

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