Twitch's audience has grown significantly since the start of the pandemic. A success that the platform plans to build on by offering new features, like Guest Star. This new tool offers creators the possibility of involving guests in their stream “in a simple way”. Until now, it was necessary to use third-party applications to integrate the audio and video of each video. In short, it's a small revolution for Twitch, which explains that any user with an account can be invited.
When will Guest Start be available?
Twitch explains that the launch of its tool will take place this summer to a small group of hand-picked creators. The service is turning to users “who already offer this type of discussion content”. The option chosen by the giant Amazon's platform, namely to offer its tool to a small sample, should allow it to collect feedback. The method is common and will lead to the launch of Guest Star for all creators “later this year”.
How will it work?
The firm says it wants to focus on three axes: simplicity, entertainment and security. The Guest Star tool will work with all popular platforms, such as OBS and Twitch Studio. It aims to be as simple as a video chat function by not using any other third-party applications.
Guest Star works on both desktop (via the browser) and mobile (via an app). Each stream can host up to five guests and viewers can raise their hand to show interest in joining the broadcast. On the guest window side, Twitch says it wants to offer overlays and branded skins for creators to integrate guests in different ways.
Regarding security, each user remains subject to the platform's terms of use. Creators and moderators will be able to vet potential guests and remove bad actors from their stream by looking at phone verification settings, profile age, and whether the account is in good standing, Twitch said. They will also be able to remove guests from their stream with the click of a button, for any reason.
Why is Twitch focusing on guests?
Often associated with the world of video games and esports, Twitch has seen the “Discussion” have seen very strong growth since the pandemic. The company announces that this is one of the fastest growing categories; supporting its statements with figures. Between January-May 2020 and January-May 2022, hours watched in the "Just Chatting" category increased by 151% and creator revenues jumped by 169%.
Twitch's new tool confirms that the platform wants to attract talk show creators. The video platform is thinking in particular of game shows, advice columns or sports shows.
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