Twitch, the most popular streaming platform among the gaming community, has always been quite strict with content creators. Streamers who signed agreements with Twitch were not allowed to stream on other web platforms like YouTube or Facebook Gaming, although they could on mobile platforms such as Instagram and TikTok. But that is changing now.
A few days ago, during TwitchCon Las Vegas 2023, Twitch changed its policies and will now allow its content creators to simultaneously stream on other major platforms, including the recent Kick. The new streaming platform is at the center of controversy for being linked to Stake.com, a cryptocurrency gambling website, and for attracting prominent Twitch streamers.
And there are quite a few. Among the famous streamers who have signed agreements with Kick are some with the highest number of subscribers, such as xQc, Amouranth, or Nickmercs. Specifically, Ninja, who once held the top spot on Twitch, left his exclusive contract with Twitch last year to be able to stream on multiple platforms.
Now, after probably realizing the danger, Twitch has changed its mind about its restrictions. Nevertheless, Twitch has a set of guidelines for simulcasting, such as maintaining the same quality of image and sound on Twitch as on other platforms, not sharing links to Twitch communities in simultaneous streams, and not using third-party services to merge chats.
Twitch has also announced an update to its policy regarding conduct outside the platform. From now on, it will penalize doxxing and swatting, two forms of harassment involving revealing personal information or sending false threats to the police to harm other streamers.
In addition to these new regulations, Twitch has unveiled some changes to its products, such as “Stream Together” (formerly Guest Star), a feature that enables co-streaming with other streamers and merging chats; “Discovery Feed,” a TikTok-style feed displaying live channels, and support for streamers’ custom emojis in the platform’s alert system.
