Twitch, the popular live streaming platform owned by Amazon, is now 10 years old. To celebrate, it has launched several big updates to make the app more mobile-friendly, improve video quality, and help streamers earn money faster.
These updates were announced during TwitchCon Europe 2025. Let’s take a closer look at the changes and what they mean especially for creators and viewers in India.
Vertical Streaming | Better for Mobile Users
Twitch has now added vertical streaming, meaning streamers can go live in a vertical video format, just like Instagram Reels or TikTok videos. This is big news for users, where most people watch videos on their smartphones.
Creators can now stream in both vertical and horizontal formats at the same time, so the stream looks good whether you’re watching on a phone or a computer.
Why This Is Useful:
- Viewers on phones will see the stream in full-screen mode.
- You can still do things like subscribe, send gift subs, or use Bits to support creators without leaving full-screen mode.
- The chat and reactions work smoothly in vertical mode too.
This update puts Twitch in line with other platforms like YouTube Shorts, Instagram, and TikTok, which are already popular for mobile videos.
2K Video Quality (1440p) | Sharper, Clearer Streams
Twitch is also testing a new video quality feature. Streamers will soon be able to stream in 2K resolution (1440p). This means a much clearer and sharper video—great for gaming, art, and tutorial streams.
Twitch is using a new video format called HEVC (H.265). The good news? It uses less internet data while still giving you great video quality.
Why 2K Matters in India:
- Viewers with limited data plans can enjoy better video without using too much internet.
- Streamers who do tech reviews, makeup tutorials, or online teaching can show more detail.
- The video adjusts to your internet speed, so it doesn’t lag or buffer as much.
This is great for creators in India who want to stream in HD but worry about slow internet or high data use.
Earn Money Faster | New Tools for Small Creators
Twitch is making it easier for new streamers to start earning money, even if they’re not official “Twitch Affiliates” yet. This is a big change, especially for beginners.
What’s New:
- Early access to Bits, subscriptions, and channel points, even before hitting affiliate level.
- Streamers can now run their own discount offers on gift subscriptions (up to 70 hours per year).
- More control over how and when to promote your channel and rewards.
In simple terms, creators no longer need thousands of followers to start earning. This gives small streamers in India a better chance to grow and earn at the same time.
Rewind and Combos | More Fun While Watching
Twitch is also testing two new features that will make watching streams more fun and interactive:
Rewind:
- Missed something important in a live stream? You’ll be able to rewind and watch it again just like on YouTube.
- After watching, you can jump back to the live stream.
Combos:
- A new way for viewers to send fun on-screen effects during streams using Bits.
- For example, if many viewers react at the same time, you’ll see animations like “Dancing Dinosaurs” or “Flying Emojis” pop up on screen.
These tools help streamers keep their viewers engaged and make the live experience more exciting.
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