05/13/2026
Are people actually watching tv if they are scrolling?
Current data indicates that 87% of all Tv viewers are also scrolling on their phones or tablets while watching Tv.
What does this mean for advertisers who are trying to capture consumers attention while they are “watching” Tv?
Here are 4 basic things you need to know about advertising on Tv in 2026 to overcome the scroll:
1. Nearly HALF of all Tv consumption is taking place using a streaming service (YouTubeTv, Hulu, Disney+, SlingTv, PlutoTv, Tubi, AmazonPrime).
2. Many of the streaming platforms provide commercial updates in the corner of the Tv screen (example: “Ad 1 of 3”) to make viewers aware of when the content will return - these shorter breaks and info typically keeps viewers more engaged than traditional broadcast Tv, AND the ads are generally not skippable.
3. Tv advertising can now be measured in a much more meaningful way as a result of actual streaming data, click-thru links and QR codes.
4. What your best customer is watching is less relevant - as ads can be now served at the household level instead of having to buy specific networks/channels or shows. You get the customer you want regardless of what they are watching.
5. If their phone/tablet is connected to the home WiFi, whatever they are scrolling on their mobile devices will actually HELP the Tv platforms serve the most appropriate Tv ads - the viewers don’t see as many irrelevant ads as in the past! 🤯
We live in an era of multi-tasking, multi-show / split screen technology, and multi-device distraction. Does that mean people are paying more attention to one screen more than another? No.
But it does make a great case for understanding what the best practices are for making Tv advertising work, and how to integrate it with mobile devices in every home.
Want to learn more about how to “stop the scroll” and get more out of the current technology driving Tv consumption and mobile device usage?
We can help. 💪🏼
Schedule a discovery call with our team to see how digital Tv & scrolling can work together for you to grow your business!