Cable cutting is on the rise, with global streaming subscribers expected to exceed 1.1 billion by 2025, signaling a shift away from traditional TV. This shift opens the door wide for streaming TV advertising, placing your brand right where audiences are — on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, while they’re binge-watching their favorite shows. That’s where streaming TV advertising comes in — it’s the new frontier for getting your brand in front of your audience, right where they’re binge-watching their favorite shows.
For everyone from local businesses and solo marketers to advertising agencies and e-commerce companies, streaming TV is far more than just a passing trend. But to make the most of streaming TV advertising, it’s crucial to understand a few often-confusing terms — CTV, OTT, and Streaming TV. With so many terms and definitions out there, it’s easy to mix them up. Let’s clarify what each term actually means.
What is Streaming TV Advertising?
Streaming TV advertising is the placement of video ads within content that is delivered over the internet, rather than via traditional cable or satellite. These ads appear on platforms like Hulu, Tubi, and Netflix, and are watched on connected devices like smart TVs, streaming sticks (Roku, Fire TV), mobile devices, or gaming consoles.
This includes ads shown through:
CTV (Connected TV): Smart TVs or connected devices.
OTT (Over-the-Top): The streaming services/apps themselves.
AVOD/FAST Platforms: Ad-supported models like Pluto TV and Tubi.
📚 Read also: 8 Proven Ways to Supercharge Your OTT Campaigns
With Skybeam, you can effortlessly target audiences across these platforms without getting bogged down by technical details — just focus on what you do best: creating powerful campaigns
Key Benefits of Streaming TV Advertising
Precise targeting: reach specific audiences by behavior, device, and location.
Massive reach: access millions of cord-cutters across streaming platforms.
Performance tracking: real-time metrics like impressions, CTR, and completion rates.
Creative flexibility: from interactive to shoppable ads.
Cost efficiency: more control over ad spend with self-serve tools.
📚 Read also: CTV Attribution 101 to understand how to track your campaign impact.
Is Streaming TV Advertising the Same as CTV Advertising?
Streaming TV advertising and CTV advertising are closely related but have subtle differences. Here’s a breakdown:
Streaming TV Advertising: Ads shown in internet-based video content on any device: TVs, phones, tablets, or computers. It includes all ads shown within streaming platforms like Hulu, Netflix, or YouTube, no matter where they’re viewed.
CTV Advertising: Ads shown specifically on connected TVs (smart TVs or TVs connected via devices like Roku, Fire TV, or gaming consoles). This provides a traditional TV experience with digital targeting benefits.
Streaming TV Advertising vs CTV Advertising: Comparison Table
Advertising on these platforms ensures you’re reaching the right audience with the right message at the right time
Wrapping Up
Streaming TV advertising blends the best of traditional TV’s reach with digital’s precision. While CTV refers to the device (Smart TVs, Roku, etc.), Streaming TV ads refer to the full ecosystem: OTT platforms, ad-supported video content, and the delivery of targeted video ads.
Whether you’re building brand awareness or driving direct conversions, streaming TV advertising offers powerful tools to connect with modern audiences.
Ready to get started with ease? Dive into the power of CTV advertising with Skybeam and see how it can amplify all your campaigns.
