Twitch, the popular livestreaming platform, has introduced a new feature called Hype Chat that allows users to pay to have their messages pinned at the top of chat conversations, similar to YouTube’s Super Chat. This feature provides a new revenue stream for both streamers and the platform itself. However, it also raises concerns about moderation and the potential for hate speech.
When using Hype Chat, users can pay anywhere from $1 to $500 to compose a message that will remain at the top of the chat until someone else pays more to have their message pinned. The price paid determines how long the message will stay at the top and also affects the number of characters users can use to compose their message. Additionally, big spenders have access to various design options to make their message stand out and catch the attention of their favorite streamer.
While streamers have the freedom to set their own prices for pinned messages, Twitch takes a 30 percent cut, leaving the remaining 70 percent for the creator. Initially, only high-profile streamers, known as Partners, will have access to this feature. Twitch justifies this limitation by explaining that pinned messages are meant to help important messages stand out in fast-moving conversations with a large number of participants. However, it has been pointed out that Twitch Partners cannot opt out of the service, which has sparked some controversy among content creators.
As with any feature that allows users to have their messages prominently displayed, there is a potential for hateful and discriminatory language. Twitch acknowledges this and has implemented safety tools to mitigate these risks. Similar to regular Twitch chat, there is a list of banned words and phrases at the site-wide level, as well as the ability for individual creators to set their own restrictions. Moreover, if a user engages in inappropriate behavior and gets banned from a chat, their pinned message will be removed along with them. All messages sent through Hype Chat are also screened by Twitch’s AutoMod system, and human moderators have the ability to delete messages whenever necessary.
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The rollout of Hype Chat is currently limited to approved Partners and is only available on the web app. However, Twitch plans to expand the feature to smartphone and tablet apps in the near future, allowing a wider audience to participate in this paid messaging system.
While Hype Chat offers a new way for streamers to monetize their content and for fans to show support, it also poses challenges regarding content moderation and the potential for wealthier users to dominate chat conversations. Twitch’s efforts to implement safety tools and moderation systems are crucial to maintain a positive and inclusive environment for all users. As the feature expands to more users, it will be important for Twitch to continually evaluate and refine these safeguards to ensure the platform remains a welcoming space for everyone.
In conclusion, Twitch’s introduction of Hype Chat brings a fresh revenue stream for streamers and the platform itself. Users can pay to have their messages pinned at the top of chat conversations, but there are concerns regarding moderation and inappropriate content. Twitch has implemented safety tools and moderation systems to address these issues, and the feature is currently available for approved Partners on the web app. As Twitch expands the availability of Hype Chat to mobile apps, it will be essential for the platform to maintain a balance between revenue generation and fostering a safe and inclusive community.
