Twitch Makes Changes to Compete Against Livestreaming Rivals
Twitch is implementing updates to strengthen its position against competitors like TikTok, Kick, and YouTube. The platform is introducing new features to enhance discoverability and expanding its safety policies to address off-platform doxxing and swatting. These announcements were made by Twitch CEO Dan Clancy at TwitchCon in Las Vegas.
Loss of Creators and Monetization Benefits
In recent times, Twitch has lost prominent creators to rival platforms due to higher financial incentives. For example, FaZe Clan’s NickMercs signed a $10 million deal with Kick, and xQc left Twitch for Kick in a $100 million agreement. To prevent further loss of creators, Twitch is now allowing streamers to simultaneously broadcast on multiple platforms without facing consequences.
Tackling Ads and Ad Revenue Issues
Ads and ad revenue remain contentious topics on Twitch, with viewers expressing frustration over pre-roll ads that interrupt live moments. In response, Twitch plans to introduce a “Chat Countdown” feature that will alert stream moderators about upcoming automatic ad breaks. The aim is to give creators more control over when ads are shown during their streams.
Social Media Reactions and Simulcasting
Twitch’s decision to open up simulcasting to all streamers follows requests from the community and Fortnite streamer Ninja’s public advocacy. While many smaller Twitch affiliates and streamers have already been simulcasting on multiple platforms, this change allows them to do so openly without fear of repercussions.
Kick Responds with Higher Creator Revenue Split
Kick’s Head of Strategic Partnerships Andrew Santamaria commended the move towards simulcasting and promoted his platform as an alternative for creators seeking greater financial benefits. Kick offers a higher revenue split for creators compared to Twitch.
Supporting Smaller Creators and Increasing Engagement
Twitch recognizes the challenges faced by smaller livestreamers in gaining followers and maintaining viewer engagement. To address this, the platform has introduced Twitch “Stories,” a time-sensitive vertical post feature similar to those on other social media platforms. Additionally, Twitch is testing a “Discovery Feed” feature to expose viewers to new creators and provide fresh content recommendations.
Addressing Off-Platform Misconduct
Twitch has historically had a lenient approach towards off-platform misconduct by its creators. However, the platform is now expanding its enforcement policies to include doxxing and swatting, recognizing the potential harm caused by such actions to both streamers and Twitch users. These new measures take effect immediately.
Comparison with YouTube’s Response to Misconduct
Twitch’s proactive stance against off-platform misconduct contrasts with recent controversy surrounding YouTube’s delayed response to allegations of doxxing by one of its creators, SSSniperwolf. YouTube eventually demonetized SSSniperwolf’s channel but faced criticism for its initial inaction.
Hot Take: Twitch Takes Steps to Compete and Protect Streamers
Twitch’s recent updates demonstrate its commitment to staying competitive in the livestreaming market while addressing important issues like discoverability, ad interruptions, and off-platform misconduct. By allowing simulcasting on multiple platforms, Twitch aims to retain its creators and prevent further losses to rivals like Kick. The introduction of features such as “Chat Countdown” and “Stories” shows Twitch’s effort to enhance user engagement and provide more control to streamers. Additionally, the platform’s expansion of safety policies reflects a growing recognition of the impact of off-platform actions on its community. These updates position Twitch as a platform that is actively listening to its users and adapting to their needs.
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