German broadcaster RTL Deutschland has expanded its streaming service RTL+ with eight new free, ad-supported streaming TV channels (FAST). Launched in June, these channels are powered by Harmonics VOS360 Media SaaS, which optimizes various stages of media processing, including graphics insertion, playout, OTT encoding and distribution.

The integration of these additional FAST channels into RTL Deutschland’s platform was managed by netorium, an application integrator based in Wiesbaden. Thanks to its experience with RTL’s infrastructure and its long-standing relationship with Harmonic, netorium ensured a seamless implementation while taking into account the compatibility of existing systems and devices. The deployment was iterative, allowing for adjustments and testing. netorium provided consulting, design, implementation and ongoing support.

Andre Prahl, Head of Sales at RTL Germany, stressed that the launch of the eight channels was easy thanks to the software-as-a-service model without major investments. This approach allows for flexible adaptation to the preferences of the viewers.

The new channels are thematically based on RTL’s most popular content, allowing them to specifically address certain viewer segments. Gil Rudge, Senior Vice President at Harmonic, stressed that to be successful, video streaming services must be tailored precisely to their viewers. Harmonic’s VOS360 media platform enables RTL to quickly create and scale these channels and offers flexibility in costs, as RTL only pays for what is used.