Observed Signal · Feb 21, 2026 · Partnership · Source: State of Streaming · Impact: 2/5 · Sentiment: Positive
Stingray Adds TikTok Radio and 3 FAST Channels to Pluto TV
Stingray expanded its distribution deal with Paramount’s Pluto TV on February 21, 2026, adding four new FAST (free ad-supported streaming TV) channels in the U.S. The new lineup includes TikTok Radio (playing full songs behind viral TikTok clips), Qello Concerts (concert films), Stingray DJAZZ (jazz performances) and ZenLIFE (wellness-focused programming). These channels join Stingray’s three existing Pluto TV channels and are positioned to increase viewer engagement on Pluto TV by offering niche, always-on music and lifestyle streams. The move is framed as part of a broader trend of FAST services using specialized, curated channels — and of social platforms like TikTok converging with linear-style streaming distribution to reach larger streaming audiences.
Adds specialized FAST inventory and branded music channels to a major AVOD/FAST platform (Pluto TV), modestly increasing CTV audio/video ad inventory and signalling social-platform-to-linear streaming convergence.
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Key Takeaways & Evidence Grounding
- Stingray expanded its deal with Pluto TV to add four new FAST channels in the U.S.
- The four new channels are TikTok Radio, Qello Concerts, Stingray DJAZZ, and ZenLIFE.
- The additions join Stingray’s three existing channels on Pluto TV.
- The expansion is reported as a way for Pluto TV to boost engagement and for Stingray to reach a larger streaming audience.
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Related Market Signals & Shifts
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Sling TV Adds Stingray Music Channels
Sling TV has added multiple Stingray music channels to both its paid plans and its free Freestream service, expanding the platform’s music offerings for viewers and increasing ad-supported inventory on its AVOD tier. Freestream — Sling’s free, ad-supported streaming TV service launched in 2023 and available on devices like Roku, smart TVs, Xbox and Comcast platforms — now carries Stingray channels alongside existing music options such as Vevo. Stingray Music, a Canada-based service that rebranded from Galaxie in 2014, provides continuous curated genre channels including Hot Country, Classic Rock, Easy Listening, Greatest Hits, Hit List and Smooth Jazz. The additions aim to enrich Sling’s audio-entertainment lineup for both free and paying customers.
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.
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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