New Twitch Power-Ups Feature Sparks Debate
Twitch has just unveiled its latest feature, Power-ups, to enhance viewer interaction and support streamers. However, the community’s reception has been mixed.
What Are Power-ups?
Power-ups are designed to provide fun and interactive ways for viewers to influence streams using Bits. This new feature is now available to all Affiliates and Partners globally. Here’s a quick rundown of what you can do with Power-ups:
- Message Effects: Add special text effects to make your messages stand out.
- On-Screen Celebration: Trigger an emote celebration over the stream for everyone to see.
- Gigantify an Emote: Send larger versions of your favorite emotes.
To use these features, simply click on the Bits gem icon below the chat window to launch the Power-Ups and Rewards menu.
Streamer Flexibility and Revenue
While Twitch provides recommended starting prices, streamers can set their own prices for Power-ups. Streamers will receive 100% of the Bits used for these interactions, similar to Cheering.
Key Concerns
While the concept behind Power-ups is to boost engagement and provide another revenue stream for creators, the community’s reaction has been mixed.
- Need for a Toggle Option: Many streamers are asking for a toggle to enable or disable Power-ups at their discretion.
- Viewer Experience: Larger streams have become chaotic unless Power-ups are set to be very expensive or have long cooldowns.
- Moderation: Moderators are finding it challenging to manage the new feature, with some calling it a “nightmare.”
Prominent streamers have also weighed in on the discussion. Pirate Software tweeted:
Future Updates and Customization
Twitch has noted that this is just the beginning for Power-ups. Later this year, they plan to regularly add more Power-ups and customization options. Twitch encourages feedback through its UserVoice platform to help shape future updates and ensure Power-ups meet the needs of both streamers and viewers.
Conclusion
While Twitch’s Power-ups feature offers exciting new ways for viewers to interact and support their favorite streamers, the mixed reactions highlight the need for further improvements and customization options. As Twitch continues to develop this feature, it will be interesting to see how it evolves to better serve the community.
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