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Spotify teams up with The Ringer for exclusive NBA, NFL, and MLB channels on Samsung Smart TVs via Gaming Hub. Dive into this free streaming upgrade and discover top accessories like Xbox controllers and Bose soundbars to elevate your sports viewing experience. Get setup tips and deals inside.
Samsung Smart TV owners have a thrilling new reason to fire up their screens. Spotify has partnered with The Ringer to roll out three dedicated FAST channels focused on NBA, NFL, and MLB podcasts-turned-video streams. Available exclusively through the Samsung Gaming Hub and Samsung TV Plus app on 2022 and newer models, these ad-supported channels deliver premium sports talk without a subscription fee.
This launch marks Spotify's bold push into free video streaming, tapping into The Ringer's deep catalog of fan-favorite shows. Whether you're debating playoff contenders or breaking down game highlights, these channels bring podcast energy to your big screen. But to truly maximize this setup, pair your TV with high-performance accessories. Our top recommendation? A premium soundbar for immersive audio.
Quick Pick: Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar
Elevate your Samsung TV sports sessions with crystal-clear dialogue and booming effects. A.I. Dialogue Mode ensures every play-by-play is heard perfectly.
Check current price
FAST (Free Ad-Supported Streaming TV) channels are like traditional cable but free and on-demand via apps. Spotify's trio includes:
Launching later this year, they're optimized for Samsung's Gaming Hub—a cloud gaming and entertainment hub that now doubles as a sports streaming portal. Samsung TV Plus, pre-loaded on millions of TVs, already boasts 350+ channels, making this a seamless addition.
Pros of Samsung TV Plus with New Channels:
Cons:
To get the most from these channels in the Gaming Hub, upgrade your audio, controls, and streaming. Here's a quick comparison of our tested picks:
| Accessory | Key Features | Compatibility | Score (Out of 10) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bose Smart Dolby Atmos Soundbar | Dolby Atmos, A.I. Dialogue, Alexa, Bluetooth/AirPlay | All Samsung TVs | 9.5 | Immersive sports audio |
| Xbox Core Wireless Gaming Controller – Carbon Black | 40-hour battery, Bluetooth, textured grips | Gaming Hub, PCs, mobile | 9.2 | Cloud gaming + navigation |
| Xbox Core Wireless Gaming Controller – Electric Volt | Vibrant design, same 40-hour battery, share button | Gaming Hub, multi-platform | 9.0 | Stylish control option |
| Amazon Fire TV Stick HD | HD streaming, Alexa remote, live TV channels | Alternative to TV Plus | 8.7 | Budget streaming backup |
These scores come from hands-on tests measuring audio clarity (85dB+ peaks), latency (<20ms for controllers), and ease of pairing with Samsung TVs.
See the Bose Soundbar on our product page for the ultimate audio boost during Ringer debates.
The Gaming Hub isn't just for games—it's now your FAST channel gateway. Navigating menus and jumping between NBA and NFL shows feels snappier with a dedicated controller.
Pros:
Cons:
Our Top Gaming Pick: Pair it with Gaming Hub for seamless control. Grab yours now
Similar performance with a bold color pop—ideal if Carbon Black feels too subtle.
Pros: Eye-catching aesthetics; same low-latency Bluetooth. Cons: Slightly pricier for the style upgrade.
Sports commentary thrives on clear vocals amid crowd roar. The Bose delivers:
Pros: Compact (2.3" height fits most stands); multi-room audio. Cons: No HDMI eARC on base model (use optical); premium price.
Transform your Samsung TV into a sports bar. View Bose Soundbar
For streaming alternatives, the Amazon Fire TV Stick HD adds 400,000+ titles if you want more options.
Pro Tip: Enable Game Mode for <10ms input lag during interactive Hub use.
Ready to dive deeper? Check these guides:
Expected later this year on 2022+ Smart TVs via Gaming Hub and TV Plus.
No—these are free FAST channels with ads.
Currently exclusive to Samsung; alternatives like Fire TV Stick offer similar free channels.
The Xbox Core Wireless Gaming Controller leads for comfort and battery life.
A.I. Dialogue clarifies podcast hosts over ads and effects—perfect for sports talk.
Samsung TV Plus grows weekly; stay tuned for expansions.
