Twitch Launches TikTok-Style Discovery Feed for All Users

Twitch Unveils TikTok-Inspired Discovery Feed for All Users

Twitch, the popular live streaming platform, has officially launched its new discovery feed to all users this week. The feed, which is reminiscent of TikTok’s short-form video format, is accessible through a dedicated tab within the Twitch mobile apps for iOS and Android. This feature allows viewers to explore bite-sized content snippets, helping them uncover new streamers to follow.

Joining the Short-Form Video Trend

With the introduction of this discovery feed, Twitch joins a growing list of apps that have embraced the short-form video format popularized by TikTok. Other notable platforms that have implemented similar features include Instagram, YouTube, Snapchat, Uber Eats, and LinkedIn.

Two Tabs: Live and Clips

The discovery feed consists of two distinct tabs: “live” and “clips.” The live tab showcases ongoing livestreams from both followed streamers and those that Twitch’s algorithm suggests based on the viewer’s interests. On the other hand, the clips tab highlights the most engaging moments from various streamers across the platform, enabling users to discover new content even when the streamers are offline.

Personalized Content Recommendations

To enhance the personalization of the feed, users can provide feedback by clicking the thumbs up or thumbs down button on livestreams and clips. This input helps Twitch’s algorithm better understand the viewer’s preferences and tailor the content accordingly.

Addressing Streamers’ Discoverability Concerns

The introduction of the discovery feed comes as a response to long-standing requests from Twitch streamers for features that improve their discoverability. Unlike fully algorithmic platforms like TikTok, Twitch streamers have had limited options to attract new viewers, often relying on self-promotion on other platforms or collaborations with fellow streamers. The discovery feed aims to bridge this gap by providing small and medium-sized streamers with the opportunity to reach new audiences.

Eligibility and Guidelines

According to Twitch, all livestreams and clips that adhere to the platform’s content guidelines are automatically eligible to appear in the discovery feed. While streamers cannot directly upload content to the feed, Twitch encourages them to create and showcase clips of their streams to increase their chances of being featured.

There are two tabs within the feed: a live feed and a clips feed. The “live” feed displays livestreams from both streamers users already follow and streamers that Twitch thinks they would like. The “clips” feed showcases top moments from streamers across Twitch, allowing viewers to discover content from streamers even when they’re not live.

As Twitch continues to evolve and adapt to the changing landscape of online video consumption, the introduction of the discovery feed marks a significant step towards enhancing the user experience and fostering the growth of its streaming community.