Twitch, the widely popular live-streaming platform, is under scrutiny after recently unveiling changes to its branded content guidelines. These policies have prompted a backlash and threats of boycott from renowned streamers and content creators.
Twitch’s Branded Content Changes: A Closer Look
Scheduled to effect on July 1, the newly revised guidelines stipulate that logos on streams must not occupy more than 3% of the screen size. The platform has also banned video, audio, and display ads from directly embedding into streams. These alterations significantly limit how streamers can advertise products and services.
Twitch’s Response to the Backlash
In response to the uproar, Twitch took to Twitter to apologize for the overly broad language of the policy. They also clarified their intent to rewrite the guidelines. Twitch emphasized that the ad policy did not curtail streamers’ capacity to form direct sponsor relationships. Instead, they intended to ban third-party ad networks from selling burned-in ads on the platform.
Streamers’ Reactions to the Twitch Policies
Zack Hoyt, widely known as Asmongold, is a popular Twitch streamer with 3.4 million followers. He stated that these changes present a problematic situation where streamers should contemplate boycotting Twitch. He argued that the company was making these changes to monopolize more of the streamers’ revenue.
Furthermore, Hoyt is part of the content creation group One True King. They released a statement expressing concern that the new policies would severely constrain their production. They also mentioned that Twitch’s alternatives were gaining ground.
Alternatives to Twitch
Live streaming competitors such as YouTube, Rumble, and Kick have been embraced by several content creators, including some of Twitch’s highest earners. Streamers like Adin Ross have migrated to these platforms after facing bans or disciplinary actions on Twitch for issues like unmoderated hateful conduct in chats.
Twitch’s Revenue and History
Twitch, owned by Amazon, reportedly made around $2.8 billion in revenue in the previous year. The platform hosts a variety of content, including live creative events featuring the baked-in ads that the new policies will impact. It is estimated that Twitch’s top streamers have earned millions of dollars from the platform.
In conclusion, the conflict between Twitch and its community of streamers raises questions about the future of the platform and the broader implications for the Creator Economy. As alternatives continue to emerge, how this will reshape the landscape of live-streaming media remains to be seen.

Leave a Reply