17LIVE Expands Beyond Livestreaming with Interactive News Initiative on FAST Channels
Jun 24, 2026
New cross-platform news program launches on 24 June 2026, combining real-time audience engagement with television-style streaming.
SINGAPORE, 24 June 2026 – SGX-listed livestreaming platform 17LIVE Group Limited (“17LIVE”, the “Company” or the “Group”) today announced the launch of “Free TV NEWS Powered by 17LIVE,” a new interactive live news program that combines real-time audience engagement with professionally produced news content, bridging creator-led engagement and traditional news consumption. The program is scheduled to debut in June 2026.
The program will be simultaneously broadcast on the “17LIVE” app in vertical format and on “FAST Channels” in horizontal format, creating a seamless cross-platform viewing experience. Airing live every weekday from 6:00 PM to 6:30 PM (JST), the program will deliver the latest news while incorporating viewer comments and reactions in real time, offering an interactive experience unique to livestreaming.
FAST Channels is a free ad-supported streaming television (FAST) service launched in Japan by BBM Inc. in August 2024. Under the collaboration, winners from 17LIVE livestreamers and emerging presenters will appear as anchors on “Free TV NEWS Powered by 17LIVE.” Utilizing advanced video compositing and real-time production switching technologies, the program will be optimized for simultaneous distribution across both vertical and horizontal viewing formats.
Following each live broadcast, archived episodes and individual news clips will be made available on FAST Channels. In addition, 17LIVE will feature exclusive follow-up livestream sessions hosted by the program’s anchors on their personal accounts.
The program will adopt a fast-paced format featuring multiple news stories delivered in succession, with anchors providing commentary and audience engagement segments throughout the broadcast. Viewer comments and reactions submitted during the livestream will also be incorporated into the program in real time to further enhance interactivity and community participation.
Mr. Shuhei Asami, General Manager of 17LIVE Japan Inc. commented, "This partnership demonstrates how livestreaming can evolve beyond entertainment into new content categories such as news and information. By combining professional news production with real-time audience participation, we hope to create a more engaging viewing experience for audiences in Japan."
The initiative reflects 17LIVE’s Forward Strategy to drive content diversification beyond traditional livestreaming through professionally produced content and cross-platform media collaborations. Through its partnership with BBM Inc., 17LIVE aims to leverage real-time audience engagement to deliver a new digital news viewing experience for audiences in Japan.
BBM Inc. recently announced the launch of the “TS-405G,” a next-generation Google TV stick powered by “Google TV for Operators.” According to BBM Inc., the device is the first Google TV stick in Japan to feature “Google TV for Operators,” offering users a more relaxed and continuous streaming experience similar to traditional television viewing. As part of this initiative, BBM Inc. also announced the addition of five new channels to its platform, including “Free TV NEWS Powered by 17LIVE,” further expanding its content lineup.
Program Overview
- Program Name: Free TV NEWS Powered by 17LIVE
- Launch Date: Scheduled for 24th June 2026
- Broadcast Schedule: Weekdays, 6:00 PM – 6:30 PM (Live)
- Platforms: 17LIVE (Vertical Format) / FAST Channels (Horizontal Format)
* Archived episodes and individual news clips will be available on FAST Channels following the live broadcast.
* Exclusive livestream sessions hosted by program anchors on their personal 17LIVE accounts are also planned.About FAST Channels
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FAST Channels is a free, ad-supported streaming television service launched in Japan by BBM Inc. in August 2024. Featuring an ad-revenue model, the service is accessible to anyone with an internet connection. It offers a unique viewing experience similar to traditional TV, allowing users to browse a diverse range of specialized channels—from camping and period dramas to general entertainment—in a structured channel format.
About 17LIVE
17LIVE is a leading live-streaming platform in Asia, with a strong presence in Japan and Taiwan. The platform offers a variety of services, including liver and V-liver live-streaming, in-app games, and live commerce.
17LIVE’s Forward Strategy focuses on three key pillars: 1) Enhancing its platform with advanced technology and a vibrant community of streamers; 2) Diversifying revenue streams through new products and business ventures; and 3) Forming strategic partnerships to build a sustainable live-streaming ecosystem across Asia.
With a global reach, 17LIVE operates in key markets including Japan, Taiwan, and Hong Kong. The platform has cultivated a dynamic and engaged user base, supported by a diverse group of streamers, delivering diverse and high-quality content that attracts both viewers and top-tier talents. For more information, please visit: https://about.17.live
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Jill Tsou
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Jill@17.live