Streaming News for the week of Nov 11th 2023
Twitch News
Twitch News: End of Year Bonus Round
A new promotion, the End of Year Bonus Round, will run from December 13th to January 2nd. Throughout this period, first-time, self-paid subs or upgrades will be discounted by 25% (similar to the Subtember promotion). Bonus Bits, offering a 10% (or slightly more) bonus, will be available from December 13th to December 20th, applicable whenever someone gives over 300 Bits. Following this, from December 27th to January 2nd, Gift Subs will be discounted by 25%. Specific conditions apply.
Twitch Partners’ Benefits: Animated Emotes and More
Twitch Partners are in for a treat as they will receive THREE Tier 2 Animated Emotes AND THREE Tier 3 Animated Emotes. This bonus is in addition to Partners and Affiliates getting 2x the animated emotes, with an expected release in mid-December.
Exciting Features for Creators: Pinned Cheer Functionality
Pinned Cheer functionality has been launched for all affiliates and partners. Creators now have the option to turn off this function and choose the minimum Bits required in their settings.
Expansion of Sponsorship Products
Sponsorship products, including Streamer Read Ads, Channel Skins, and Sponsored Subs, are seemingly undergoing a broader release, bringing more opportunities to Twitch creators.
Enhanced Mobile Experience: Vertical Clips in Discovery Feed
Clips edited into vertical format will soon appear in the mobile Discovery Feed by the end of the year and across all mobile discovery surfaces in 2024.
New Features for Users: Watch Streaks
Watch Streaks have been introduced to approximately 50% of users on Android and PC, enhancing the user experience on Twitch.
Changes in Amazon’s Games Division
In a notable development, Amazon has laid off 180 people from its Games division, leading to the closure of the entire Crown Channel on Twitch.
Global Expansion of Hype Challenges
Following the conclusion of the Hype Challenge in the USA, Twitch is gearing up for Hype Challenges in the UK, France, Germany, Australia/NZ, and Brazil.
User-Friendly Update: Redesigned Bits Card
The redesigned Bits Card is now accessible to all users, offering an improved and user-friendly experience.
New Global Emote: ForSigmar
A new global emote, ForSigmar, has been introduced, and it is related to the Warhammer theme.
Technical Updates: TwitchLib Release for Unity
A new TwitchLib release specifically designed for Unity has been published, bringing technical enhancements to the platform.
Concerns Raised: Op-Ed on Twitch’s Role in Misinformation
In an op-ed, concerns have been raised about Twitch evolving into a hub of misinformation. The article suggests that this trend could impact the 2024 elections, drawing parallels with the influence Facebook had in 2016 and Twitter in 2020.
Other Streaming News
Platform Trends: News Seekers on TikTok, Insta, and TwitchTikTok, Instagram, and Twitch are witnessing a surge in users seeking news on their platforms. Notably, 17% of users now turn to Twitch streamers for news, marking an increase from 12% the previous year.Aitum’s Latest Release: Version 1.3 with Enhanced FeaturesAitum has unveiled version 1.3, featuring AV1 support, multiple output options, and various other updates aimed at improving user experience.Twitch Innovation: Sery_Bot’s New Announcement FeatureSery_Bot on Twitch has introduced a new capability: it can now announce when ads are running directly in the Twitch chat, enhancing user awareness.YouTube’s Regulatory Updates: Content Labels and AI DisclosureYouTube is rolling out new content labels and disclosure requirements for content wholly or manipulated by AI. This initiative aims to provide users with more transparency regarding AI-generated content.Elgato’s Anticipated Launch: Bluetooth Remote for New Key LightsElgato is gearing up for the launch of new Key Lights, accompanied by a Bluetooth remote. This development is expected to enhance the control and functionality of Elgato’s lighting products.Changing Landscape for Gaming Creators: Opportunities for Smaller CreatorsAs contracts for large gaming creators dwindle, smaller creators are identifying new opportunities within the gaming space, as reported by Digiday.Monetization Policy Updates on YouTube: Breastfeeding and Non-Sexually Graphic DancingYouTube has adjusted its monetization policies, allowing channels with breastfeeding content when a child is present, even if the areola is visible. Additionally, monetization is now permitted for content featuring ‘non-sexually graphic dancing,’ such as grinding or twerking.TikTok’s Integration with Music Streaming: Save on Spotify and MoreIn an upcoming feature, TikTok will enable users to save music directly on platforms like Spotify and other music streaming services, enhancing the synergy between the two platforms.Regulatory Action in Nepal: Potential Ban on TikTokTikTok is facing a potential ban in Nepal due to its perceived “adverse impact on social harmony,” reflecting the ongoing regulatory challenges faced by the platform in various regions.Discord’s AI Chatbot Closure: Farewell to ClydeDiscord has announced the shutdown of its AI Chatbot, Clyde, marking a shift in the platform’s approach to AI-driven features.
