Twitch Embraces Vertical Livestreams and 2K Streaming: A Mobile-First Revolution?
Twitch is shaking things up with a series of announcements at TwitchCon Europe, signaling a shift towards a more mobile-friendly and higher-quality viewing experience. The platform is introducing vertical livestreams, making it easier to watch content in portrait mode on smartphones. This move, combined with the open beta of 2K (1440p) streaming, aims to enhance clarity and detail for viewers, regardless of their device.
Vertical streams are designed to optimize the viewing experience on mobile devices, allowing users to comfortably watch livestreams without having to rotate their phones. Twitch plans to roll out a dual-format mode, enabling streamers to broadcast in both vertical and horizontal orientations simultaneously. This feature, currently in testing with a small group of channels, aims to cater to viewers on both desktop and mobile platforms.
According to Twitch, "This allows us to better optimize the viewing experience for a device and how a viewer is using that device. Viewers watching on desktop will still see landscape. Viewers on mobile will see your vertical layout if they hold the phone vertically, or landscape if they rotate their phone horizontally."
The open beta of 2K streaming (1440p) is another significant upgrade, offering a noticeable improvement in video quality compared to 1080p. This feature, now available to all Twitch partners and affiliates, utilizes the HEVC codec, which provides a better picture with a lower bitrate. Streamers who want to try it out can join a waitlist.
In addition to these visual enhancements, Twitch is introducing a rewind feature, allowing viewers to easily jump back and rewatch missed moments. This feature is also currently being tested with a limited number of viewers.
Other notable updates announced at TwitchCon Europe include:
- Twitch Combos: A new way for viewers to support streamers with Bits.
- Personalized subscription gift promotions: Streamers can now manage their own subscription offers.
- Mobile app improvements: Simplified chat, Arabic interface support, and mobile Mod View for Android.
- Easier affiliate access and clip enhancements: Reduced affiliate requirements and enhanced clip interaction.
These changes align with Twitch's 2025 roadmap, focusing on content creation, monetization, and distribution. CEO Dan Clancy emphasized the platform's commitment to supporting streamers and fostering a stronger community connection.
With these updates, Twitch is clearly aiming to create a more versatile and engaging platform for both streamers and viewers. The platform already captures more than 60% of the video game livestreaming market. Will these changes be enough?
What do you think of these new features? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
