The updated VAST specification with additions designed for CTV delivery: mezzanine file support for high-quality transcoding, server-side ad insertion compatibility, and a more robust error reporting structure. In practice, implementation across CTV publishers and players is inconsistent. Some are on 4.x. Some are still on 3.0. Creative and technical specs need to be confirmed per publisher, not assumed from the deal sheet.
Ad tech glossary
VAST 4.0+ for CTV
Technical definition
Advanced video ad serving template specifications designed specifically for connected TV environments, including support for mezzanine file quality and interactive elements.
The ADLINGO translation
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Related terms
- Audience Addressability
- AVOD (Advertising-Based Video On Demand)
- AVOD Stacking
- Co-Viewing Measurement
- Competitive Separation
- CTV (Connected TV)
- Deal Discovery
- Dynamic Ad Load
- Dynamic Pod Optimization
- FAST (Free Ad-Supported Television)
- Header Bidding for CTV
- Pod Length
Where this shows up
The 2026 upfront runs on shape, not size
Supply is outpacing demand. Scarcity has collapsed into sports. And the most useful phrase in the market right now isn't volume or price. It's "the shape of the deal."
⏸️ Pause Ads
I'm back from CES, where (and I can't believe I'm saying this) pause ads were having a moment. I did not have this one on my bingo card. Yes, those ads that pop up when you hit pause on your TV.
Get Better CTV Quality in 2025
I'm not big on New Year's resolutions, but I do want you to look me in the eye and promise that you will press for better CTV quality in 2025. Oh...you thought it all ran on a TV in a living room? Have a seat. We need to talk.