Observed Signal · Oct 17, 2026 · Product Update · Source: Cord Cutters News · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Neutral
Pluto TV now offers over 400 free live channels
Amidst rising subscription costs for major streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, and Paramount+, free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) services are gaining attention. Pluto TV, owned by Skydance, now offers over 400 free live channels along with thousands of on-demand movies and shows. The service provides a cable-like channel guide and is available on various devices. Pluto TV leverages content from networks such as CBS, MTV, Comedy Central, and Nickelodeon to create exclusive channels. Recent additions include horror and sci-fi themed channels. The article positions Pluto TV as a cost-saving alternative for consumers looking to reduce entertainment expenses.
Pluto TV's expansion to 400+ channels is notable for the FAST/CTV space, but it is a routine content expansion, not a major strategic shift. It reflects the growth of ad-supported streaming amid rising subscription costs, which is relevant to the AdTech industry as it expands ad inventory.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Pluto TV now offers over 400 free live channels.
- Pluto TV is owned by Skydance.
- Pluto TV offers thousands of on-demand movies and shows.
- Recent channel additions include horror and sci-fi themed channels.
- Major streaming services like Netflix, Disney+, Hulu, Peacock, and Paramount+ have raised prices in 2026.
Connected Companies & Entities
2 Entities mapped“Pluto TV provides access to more than 400 free live television channels as well as thousands of on-demand movies and television shows.”
“Pluto TV, owned by the newly formed Skydance, benefits from access to extensive libraries.”
Ontology Mapping & Concepts
Related Market Signals & Shifts
Recent verified developments and strategic activity across this market segment.
Pluto TV Adds Five New Live Channels
Pluto TV expanded its free ad-supported streaming lineup in August 2026 by launching five new live linear channels — Pluto Royal Drama, El Rey Rebel, Ghosts, Pluto Quirky AF, and Pluto Action/Drama — aimed at drama, comedy, action and niche-themed programming. The additions reflect Pluto TV’s strategy of offering continuous, genre-focused linear streams alongside on-demand content to increase engagement without subscription fees. The article recounts Pluto TV’s origin in 2013 (public beta March 31, 2014), its January 2019 acquisition by Viacom for about $340 million (completed March 2019), and subsequent expansion under Viacom, Paramount Global, and now described as part of Paramount Skydance. The channel rollout is presented as part of seasonal refreshes intended to retain and attract viewers in the competitive free streaming (FAST/AVOD) landscape.
Pluto TV Adds 15 Free Live True Crime Channels
Pluto TV has expanded its free, ad-supported FAST lineup with 15 dedicated live true crime channels. The curated offering includes branded and franchise streams such as Pluto True Crime, Pluto More True Crime, The First 48 by A&E, Cops on Pluto, Dateline 24/7, Forensic Files, Court TV and Oxygen True Crime Archives. The channels run 24/7 and are available at no cost on Pluto TV’s platform. Pluto TV was founded in 2013 by Nick Grouf, Tom Ryan and Ilya Pozin, was acquired by Viacom (now Paramount Global) in 2019 for $340 million, and had grown to more than 80 million global users by 2026. The update increases AVOD/FAST programming inventory available to viewers and advertisers on Pluto TV.
State of Streaming Adds Pluto TV Profile
This is a publisher profile page for Pluto TV on State of Streaming. Pluto TV is described as a free ad‑supported linear streaming (FAST/AVOD) app that replicates a lean‑back TV experience with 250+ channels and a high‑frequency, brand‑safe environment for advertisers. The service is owned by Paramount Global and is positioned within Paramount’s corporate family alongside properties such as Paramount+, Showtime, BET and others. The page lists Pluto TV’s USPI score (Q4 2025) with a Rank #8, links to recent Pluto TV press releases and editorial coverage (including a Feb 21, 2026 signal about a Stingray partnership), and provides navigation to State of Streaming resources (articles, briefing, podcast, directory). The profile is informational and targets media buyers, advertisers and industry observers evaluating CTV inventory sources.
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