What Is Connected TV in Advertising?

What Is Connected TV in Advertising?

Connected TV, known as CTV, refers to any television connected to the internet that can stream digital content. In advertising, CTV allows brands to deliver video ads within streaming apps and on-demand programming. It combines television-style storytelling with digital targeting.

This article explains what Connected TV means in an advertising context and why it is now a core part of digital media plans.

CTV Defined for Advertisers

CTV describes smart TVs and streaming devices that access content through internet connections. Examples include Roku, Amazon Fire TV, Apple TV, Samsung Tizen, LG WebOS, and gaming consoles.

CTV ads appear before, during, or after streamed content. They deliver the look and feel of traditional TV ads but rely on digital technology.

Why Advertisers Use CTV

CTV provides several important advantages:

  • High-quality video format
  • Non-skippable placements
  • Programmatic buying options
  • Improved frequency control
  • More precise targeting
  • Strong measurement options

Brands gain the storytelling power of television with the flexibility of digital buying.

Where CTV Ads Appear

CTV ads appear within:

  • Streaming apps
  • On-demand TV platforms
  • Ad-supported video-on-demand services
  • News and entertainment apps
  • Sports and event streaming apps

Each platform offers different audience segments and content themes.

CTV vs Traditional TV

CTV differs from broadcast TV in several ways:

  • Uses digital delivery
  • Uses real-time data for targeting
  • Allows flexible buying
  • Works across many apps rather than fixed channels

This flexibility attracts advertisers looking for efficient reach.

CTV and Generational Viewing Shifts

Viewers continue to shift toward streaming. Younger audiences, in particular, consume more content through connected devices than through cable. This shift increases the value of CTV in advertising plans, delivering an attributable brand engagement.

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What Is CTV Advertising?

CTV advertising is digital advertising delivered on Connected TV devices such as smart TVs and streaming players through internet-based content.