Twitch Faces Backlash and Reverses Ad Adjustments After Streamer Exodus
Twitch Abandons New Ad Rules as Streamers Exit the Platform
Following a wave of backlash and streamers leaving the platform, Twitch has decided to scrap its recently introduced advertising regulations. The Amazon-owned livestreaming service had initially planned to impose restrictions on the size and type of ads used by content creators on Twitch. This move would have significantly impacted streamers’ ability to generate income on the platform. However, in response to the outcry and threats of boycotts, Twitch has reversed this policy, although some streamers claim that not all of the new rules have been completely rolled back.
In a widely viewed tweet with 13.4 million impressions, Twitch acknowledged the negative impact of the new rules on streamers’ growth and income. The platform stated that it would not hinder streamers’ ability to establish direct relationships with sponsors, emphasizing their autonomy and control over sponsorship deals. Twitch expressed its commitment to collaborating with the community to create the best possible experience and acknowledged the importance of user feedback in bringing about these changes.
Twitch’s decision to backtrack on the ad rules comes just one day after the platform apologized for the confusion caused and pledged to rewrite the regulations. Despite these developments, UK streamer Marco, known as Stallion, confirmed that he would still be leaving Twitch, citing this incident as the final push he needed to transition away from the platform. Stallion expressed concerns about Twitch’s lack of discoverability and its shift towards prioritizing financial gains over the well-being of its users.
Under the abandoned rules, streamers would have been prohibited from embedding ads, including video, audio, or other formats, directly into their streams. Additionally, the size of logos would have been limited to only 3% of the screen size. Streamers often rely on embedded ads to ensure consistent visibility throughout their streams. While Twitch typically shares 50% of the subscription revenue with streamers, larger streamers may receive a 70-30 split. However, Twitch does not receive any portion of the revenue streamers generate from ads or donations.
The impact of the revised rules on charity events, such as Games Done Quick, raised concerns as well. These events heavily rely on prominently displayed logos, which the new regulations would have limited. The extent to which the rules will be rewritten remains uncertain, but for some streamers, the damage has already been done. Stallion expressed disappointment in the platform’s lack of consideration for its users, particularly those who rely on Twitch as their primary source of income. Despite the initial fear surrounding the decision to leave Twitch, Stallion believes that, in the long run, it will be the best decision for his career.
