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The Madison Avenue Field GuideA field guide to marketing & advertising, by Brandon Mina

GlossaryCTV, Video & AudioProgrammatic Linear TV

CTV, Video & Audio

Programmatic Linear TV

Using automated, data-driven platforms to plan and buy ads on traditional broadcast or cable TV rather than through manual negotiation.

By Brandon MinaCEO, BrandPilot AIUpdated November 2026

Short answer

Programmatic linear TV is the use of automated, data-driven platforms to plan and buy advertising on traditional broadcast or cable television, rather than through manual negotiation and insertion orders. It lets advertisers apply audience data and automated workflows to linear inventory, aiming to make TV buying more targeted, efficient, and measurable.