What is Streaming TV Advertising?

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.

The Difference Between OTT, CTV, and Streaming TV

Now, there’s a bit of confusion out there when it comes to all terms — OTT, CTV, streaming TV. What’s the deal?

1. OTT (Over-the-Top): This is the content delivery method. It’s how streaming platforms bypass cable and satellite to deliver content straight to devices over the Internet.
   Examples: Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, Pluto TV etc.

2. CTV (Connected TV): This is the hardware — like smart TVs or streaming devices — that brings OTT content into your living room.
   Examples: Apple TV, Samsung Smart TV, PlayStation, Xbox, etc.

3. Streaming TV: The actual act of watching internet-based TV content. So when someone’s using CTV to stream OTT content, that’s streaming TV.

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

What is Streaming TV Advertising?

Simply put, streaming TV advertising is placing your ads in the middle of on-demand content that’s streamed over the internet. Think of it like the commercials you see on traditional TV but smarter — way smarter. Your ad pops up when someone is tuned in to their favorite show on platforms like Hulu, Disney+, or even Amazon Prime — not scrolling past you on their phone but fully immersed in the TV experience.

That’s why streaming TV is so powerful: people are engaged, and you’re not just another ad in a feed. With tools like Skybeam’s TV Ads Manager, you get to insert your brand right in the middle of their binge session, grabbing attention when it matters most.

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

Top Streaming TV Platforms by Ad Spend

Here’s where it gets fun. The rise of streaming TV means you have plenty of options to place your ads. But which platforms should you focus on? Let’s hit the highlights:

1. Hulu

Want to reach a wide audience? Hulu’s got you. With a mix of live TV and on-demand content, your ad will hit viewers across shows they love, with the ability to precisely target based on demographics and viewing habits.

2. Amazon Prime Video

As one of the largest streaming services, Prime Video offers content ranging from blockbuster movies to original series. Advertisers can place their brands in front of engaged viewers through ad-supported models.

3. Disney+

Known for its high-quality family content, Disney+ now offers ad-supported tiers, allowing brands to be seen by audiences who trust and enjoy the platform’s beloved content.

4. Pluto TV & Tubi

Free, ad-supported platforms like Pluto TV and Tubi are perfect for reaching audiences who prefer free content. These platforms draw in a diverse range of viewers across different genres.

5. Netflix

Once ad-free, Netflix has entered the ad-supported game, providing brands access to its massive, engaged user base. It’s an excellent platform for reaching binge-watchers across diverse genres.

Advertising on these platforms ensures you’re reaching the right audience with the right message at the right time

Wrapping Up

Understanding the difference between Streaming TV and CTV advertising can feel complex, especially with all the technical terms. However, with Skybeam, launching your streaming TV ad campaigns is as simple and straightforward as setting up ads on Google or Facebook. Our platform takes care of the details, so you can focus on what matters—reaching your audience where they’re most engaged.

Ready to get started with ease? Dive into the power of CTV advertising with Skybeam and see how it can amplify all your campaigns.