Vizio has added a new discovery feature, Content Connections as part of its WatchFree+ service and smart TV interface. NBCUniversal’s Peacock has climbed aboard as the platform’s first Content Connections partner. With Content Connections, users can move seamlessly from Vizio’s FAST environment, WatchFree+, to services available through paid subscription. The Peacock Preview channel will let consumers with Vizio smart TVs have free access for a three-week period to select episodes from more than 16 Peacock series. Content Connections will serve viewers with “intuitive messages” directing them to participating platforms’ streaming apps.

“The smart TV interface provides a direct connection so that viewers can hop from the linear-style channels on the Vizio FAST into the content partner’s SVOD app (in this case Peacock) to watch additional episodes if they have an account or can sign up,” Fierce Video reports.

“The feature and partnership comes at a time when consumers are still struggling to find content they want to watch amid an array of options and streaming services are seeking ways to get titles in front of viewers across a fragmented viewing landscape.”

Vizio will promote the Peacock Preview channel two ways: on the Vizio home screen and live on channel 196 of the WatchFree+ program guide in the Movies & TV category.

“As the exclusive home to the Peacock Preview channel, our millions of WatchFree+ viewers have access to a world-class collection of hit shows, originals, and beloved Peacock titles,” said Katherine Pond, Vizio group vice president, platform content & partnerships in an announcement.

“Providing opportunities for consumers to discover Peacock’s programming is integral to our continued growth,” Annie Luo, Peacock EVP global partnerships and strategic development said, adding that “through Vizio’s Content Connections we can both introduce viewers to our series and give them a way to connect to Peacock with ease.”

Noting that details of the partnership with Peacock were not revealed, Fierce Video pointed out that “Vizio’s seen advertising revenue for its smart TV platform continue to climb, even as device sales have dipped over recent quarters.”