Latest news with #livestreaming
Tahawul Tech
3 hours ago
- Business
- Tahawul Tech
TwitchCon 10th anniversary brings new products and language expansion
New features unveiled at TwitchCon Rotterdam focus on enhancing the mobile experience, expanding monetisation for streamers, and launching right-to-left Arabic support. Dubai — Twitch — a subsidiary of Inc. — has marked a decade of TwitchCon with a celebration in Rotterdam. The interactive live streaming service for content spanning gaming, entertainment, sports, music, and more unveiled a suite of new features designed to enhance how communities connect, streamers grow, and fans engage across the globe. The company announced the upcoming launch of right-to-left Arabic language support, opening new doors for Arabic-speaking streamers and viewers in the Middle East and North Africa and beyond. In 2024, Twitch saw a +24% YoY increase in content watch time in the UAE – contributing to the livestreaming service's broader momentum across MENA. Viewers across MENA spent 209 Million+ hours watching content on Twitch in 2024, a clear sign of the region's surging demand for livestreamed entertainment. The Twitch community is composed primarily of Gen Z and Millennials, and nearly 70% of Twitch viewers are between the ages of 18 and 34 and with 105M+ average monthly visitors. Over 2.5 million people tune in to Twitch at any given moment, broadcasting content in 35 languages worldwide. 'TwitchCon is our largest annual IRL gathering, bringing together our global community of streamers, viewers, and brands in a powerful way,' said Dan Clancy, CEO of Twitch. 'This weekend in Rotterdam is a celebration of creativity, connection, and fun. We're introducing new tools and features to help streamers grow, including ones tailored to the MENA region. We've seen strong momentum around gaming and esports, plus a rising demand for new and existing audiences. We're excited to keep building in MENA, because when streamers thrive, so do the communities around them.' TwitchCon Rotterdam kicked off its tenth anniversary celebrations, with another major event planned for San Diego later this year. During the keynote, Twitch shared updates across mobile innovation, monetisation, community tools, and streamers' support. Key Highlights from TwitchCon Rotterdam include: Twitch will launch right-to-left Arabic on Twitch. Arabic is one of the most spoken languages in the world, and this update will open the door for even more people to join in on Twitch and build community here. Twitch will have more to share this summer. To get streams looking better on smaller devices, Twitch is rolling out vertical streaming. The new vertical layout makes it easier for viewers to participate in events like Hype Trains and support streamers by subbing, gifting, and cheering while watching streams in full screen. Twitch is also adding the ability to stream in dual format as part of this update—meaning Creators can go live in both horizontal and vertical formats at the same time. Twitch will be testing dual-format streaming and the new vertical theatre with a small number of channels this summer before slowly expanding to more users later this year. Twitch will begin rolling out 2k streaming in Open Beta to all Partners and Affiliates. 2k streams will use a newer HEVC codec that offers higher quality streams with lower bitrates. With Twitch Enhanced Broadcasting technology, stream quality will automatically adjust based on bandwidth, so viewers will see the best version of the streams with no lagging or buffering. Head to Creator Home to sign up to take part in the Open Beta now – some accounts will be granted access immediately to allow streaming directly from TwitchCon in 2k. Twitch is introducing Combos. Combos is about giving viewers more ways to react to streams and express themselves—all while supporting Creators monetarily. The feature allows anyone to support your channel, only takes a handful of Bits to contribute to Combos, and is built around reacting to your moments, which is something Chat already does. Combos start with a single tap, which rallies other viewers to keep the Combo going and unleash bigger and bigger effects. Starting very soon, streamers will be able to run their own gift sub promotions. It could be for a streamer-versary, a Partner-versary, or just because you feel like it. To start, Partners and Affiliates will be given 70 hours of promotional time to use in up to seven different promotions throughout the year. For now, promotions will be limited to 35% off bundles of 5+ gift subs, but Twitch is exploring other promotions types as well. Twitch is making reaching Affiliate status more achievable. Creators can find the updated Affiliate requirements in the Creator Dashboard or on the Affiliate help page. For streamers who aren't Affiliates, Twitch just made an update this week to allow access to money made from streaming before reaching the payout threshold. As lives get busier, viewers aren't always able to tune in for longer streams, but they will always have a few minutes to catch up on what they've missed in the Clips feed. So, Twitch is focused on making Clips more engaging by adding comments and reactions. Twitch is also working on making it easier to create and share these Clips with recent updates like a less disruptive clipping flow, a first-party clip chat command, and upcoming experiments that help streamers draft Clips they can come back to review, edit, and publish after a stream. Additionally, watching Clips contributes to viewer's Watch Streaks. Twitch is also rolling out rewind. Viewers can rewind a stream to the part they missed, then resume the stream and join the action in real time. Twitch will be testing with a small number of viewers later this summer to help refine rewind. As part of improving the mobile experience, Twitch has simplified the process for starting and managing a Shared Chat on mobile. This will enable anyone—but especially IRL streamers—to collaborate more easily on the go. This update will be rolled out to all streamers next month. Twitch is bringing mobile Mod View to the Android App. Mod View on mobile gives Mods easier access to their most important tools, designed for a smaller screen experience. This update is rolling out to the Twitch Android app on Monday. Twitch is launching the Twitch Moderators Club. Mods help protect their favourite communities, but Mods should also have a space that's all theirs. Similar to our Unity Guilds and Creator Clubs, the Twitch Moderators Club is meant to help foster connection and community. This is a new private Discord space for Mods where they can connect, share ideas, and access educational workshops.
Khaleej Times
3 days ago
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE live streaming market set to surge to $3.4 billion by 2030, report says
Heads up, UAE content creators: Take advantage of the live streaming segment as it is expected to grow in the country from $1.9 billion to $3.4 billion by 2030. Overall across the Mena region, the industry is projected to reach $17.8 billion by 2030, according to TikTok's newly released report. Yahya Munir, TikTok Live trust & experience manager for Mena, highlighted the opportunity in livestreaming market that is currently valued at $8.1 billion across the Mena region. 'It is fast becoming a cornerstone of the digital economy, driving job creation, entrepreneurship, and creative industry growth across the region,' he said in a statement sent to Khaleej Times on Friday. TikTok, which was released in September 2016, underlined: 'The UAE can attract talent, amplify local stories, and cement its role as a leader in the global livestreaming economy. Munir explained: 'Livestreaming is redefining how content is created, consumed, and monetised across Mena. This is no longer just a creator trend – it's a fast-growing economic force that is unlocking opportunities for creators, brands, and communities alike.' According TikTok's 'Future of Entertainment' report – done in collaboration with consulting firm Kearney – more than 10 million people across Mena have livestreamed at least once. 'This proves the format's accessibility and surging popularity.' 115,000 go live daily In the UAE, around 115,000 social media users are estimated to go live daily on (various) livestreaming platforms — 'producing content that ranges from entertainment and educational topics to emerging lifestyle and niche formats.' 'These creators are empowered by TikTok's various resources and features that educate creators on how to utilise TikTok LIVE, the different offerings and monetisation opportunities, helping them professionalise and scale their reach,' TikTok noted, adding: 'The UAE is well-positioned to become a regional hub for livestreaming, thanks to its strong infrastructure, progressive regulation, and national focus on digital growth.' The UAE's Digital Economy Strategy actually aims for the country 's tech sector to constitute 20 per cent of overall GDP by 2031 — a benchmark that, if attained, would position the UAE as a regional and global leader in technology. The UAE Centennial Plan 2071, meanwhile, includes long-term goals for creating a knowledge-based economy driven by technology and digital transformation. The key, TikTok noted, is a 'combination of real-time interactivity, creator-driven production, and direct audience engagement' to reshape media consumption patterns and offer new avenues for commercial brands. Here are the other key findings of TikTok's 'Future of Entertainment' report: Mena creators produce a variety of content tailored to audience preferences, ranging from global trends to region-specific offerings. Gaming remains a global powerhouse, with platforms such as Twitch driving this preference, while interactive discussions, which can revolve around an immense range of topics and genres including comedic entertainment, serious debates, open forums, and informative lectures, have gained widespread popularity Educational content, including live tutorials and workshops, appeals to knowledge-seeking audiences, while live commerce merges entertainment and shopping to create interactive product demonstrations. Music and dance performances also feature prominently. Religious livestreams, including Quran recitations, discussions on Islamic teachings, and interactive faith-based content, have attracted a distinct audience. There is a notable growth in categories such as cooking, fitness coaching, and highly specific hobbies. The Mena region currently has more than 700 agencies, representing a relatively underdeveloped industry compared to China, where some 80 percent of creators who livestream daily are affiliated with agencies. Mena has only around 10 per cent of creators who livestream daily work with agencies – this highlights the opportunity to scale up agency involvement. Agencies are emerging as important enablers that provide training, tools, and infrastructure to help creators enhance content and build sustainable careers. A typical agency employs 15 to 20 people and manages anywhere from 200 to 500 creators. Larger agencies can have 100 or more employees, overseeing the careers of 5,000 or more creators. Agencies in Mena manage creators spread across different countries and maintain offices in multiple countries to support their diverse creator base.
Globe and Mail
4 days ago
- Business
- Globe and Mail
PopStream Launches Desktop AR Broadcasting Platform for Windows Users Worldwide
PopStream, a Finnish-based technology company, has officially launched its augmented reality broadcasting platform for Windows users globally. The software enables content creators, educators, and professionals to integrate augmented reality elements directly into their video feeds without the need for post-production or additional hardware PopStream installs as a virtual camera on any Windows computer and is compatible with all major video platforms, including Zoom, Microsoft Teams, YouTube Live, OBS, and Twitch. By leveraging AR marker technology and playlist scheduling, the software allows users to display banners, animations, or sponsored content directly onto real-world environments using just a standard webcam. The demand for real-time content personalization and brand monetization has rapidly increased with the rise of livestreaming, virtual meetings, and the global creator economy. PopStream's platform provides a seamless solution that works out of the box, removing technical barriers that have traditionally limited AR broadcasting to enterprise studios or post-production workflows. The software includes features such as marker-based ad triggering, playlist-based content rotation, and full resolution output support. PopStream's real-time functionality gives users full control over their on-screen experience while maintaining compatibility with their preferred streaming tools. PopStream was developed by a team of engineers and AR specialists in Finland. The company's leadership includes Founder & CEO Piruz Chaman Afruz (Bruce Afruz) and Managing Partner Talat Erden. The technology was built with a focus on performance, simplicity, and the growing need for creators to monetize their content through visual experiences. The release marks a milestone for the company as it expands its product offerings for the creator economy and digital communications sector. With its headquarters in Helsinki, PopStream aims to support content professionals across industries by delivering intuitive, professional-grade AR tools that integrate into existing workflows. The PopStream desktop application is now available for free download on Windows via the company's website. The macOS version is expected to follow in the near future. For more information about PopStream and its features, visit below. Media Contact Company Name: PopStream Contact Person: Piruz Chaman Afruz (Bruce Afruz) Email: Send Email Country: Finland Website:
The Sun
4 days ago
- Business
- The Sun
Warning to all UK Netflix users over £1k fine for watching new show this weekend
NETFLIX users in the UK could be faced with fines of up to £1,000 for watching a new show this weekend. An update to the streaming platform means viewers will be required to pay an additional fee to watch certain programmes. 1 Netflix has recently branched into showing live content, which will have a major effect on UK viewers. UK households are legally required to have a TV licence when watching or recording live TV, regardless of what channel it is on. However, if you do not watch or record live television, or use BBC iPlayer, then you do not need a TV licence. Previously, this has meant that those who solely watch television through Netflix or other streaming platforms do not need a TV licence. However, with the new Netflix live streaming feature, which includes the upcoming Tudum Live event this weekend, that could now change. UK viewers wishing to watch the live event will require a TV licence to do so legally. Legal experts previously warned about this issue when Netflix first began live streaming content in 2023. Now, the BBC has confirmed to Cord Busters that viewers will be required to purchase a TV Licence if they plan to watch live events on Netflix. However, the majority of Netflix's content remains exempt from the TV licence fee, so long as it is not broadcast live. Daniel McAfee, Head of Legal Operations at Lawhive, confirmed: "Under UK law, any live television broadcast requires a valid TV Licence, regardless of the streaming platform." Inside the horrendous Tylenol massacre that left seven dead Netflix users who violate the licensing law could face fines of up to £1,000. While you cannot be imprisoned for evading the TV licence, court -imposed fines resulting from non-payment could see you facing jail time. Daniel advised viewers to "stay informed on licensing changes as streaming platforms expand live broadcast offerings." While enforcement officers for the licence can carry out checks to ensure compliance, occupiers have "no legal obligation" to let them into their home. The licence fee raises around £3.7 billion a year which is around 65 per cent of the corporation's funding. Do I need a TV licence? IF you want to watch or record live TV then, yes, you need a licence. This includes recording it live and watching it later. Live TV includes all programmes on any channel, including soaps, series, documentaries and even movies. In addition, the rules apply even if you don't watch the shows on an actual TV - for example, if you watch programmes that are being broadcast live on a PC, laptop, tablet or phone. A colour TV licence currently costs £169.50 a year. A licence for watching a black and white TV costs £57. You'll need to apply for a free licence on the TV licensing website or call 0300 790 6117. Around 80 per cent of homes pay the fee but evasion is up to more than 10 per cent. If you are over 75 and receive Pension Credit, or live with a partner who does, you are entitled to a free TV Licence. Those living in care homes or sheltered accommodation who are retired and over 60, or disabled, can grab their licence for just £7.50. A 50 per cent discount is offered to anyone who is registered blind or lives with someone who is.
Malay Mail
6 days ago
- Business
- Malay Mail
Shopee Study Reveals: Malaysian Shoppers Now Balance Price with Quality
KUALA LUMPUR, MALAYSIA - Media OutReach Newswire - 27 May 2025 - Malaysians are still watching their wallets - but they're also watching livestreams and product videos before making a purchase. According to Shopee's latest consumer survey*, while 42% of respondents still value discounts and low prices, a greater number - 58% - now prioritise product quality and seller credibility when deciding if something is truly worth emerging trend of smart spending signals a new chapter in e-commerce: shoppers remain price-conscious, but they're no longer buying blindly based on discounts alone. Instead, they are leveraging Shopee's trust-building tools such as Shopee Live and Shopee Video, affiliate content, and trusted reviews to find the right balance between affordability and quality. Smart shoppers are more intentional, using digital tools to stretch every ringgit and ensuring valuable purchase price remains a key motivator, today's shoppers aren't just chasing discounts - they investigate product quality from readily available tools before 60% of Malaysians use built-in features like daily vouchers, cashback offers, Shopee Coins, and the ' Lagi Murah ' tag to find the best deals. In fact, 79% of respondents reported stacking vouchers to maximise their savings, while 40% actively searched for the 'Lagi Murah' tag to ensure they're getting the lowest possible price. But here's what's new: shoppers are complementing these tools with deeper research and validation features, especially Shopee Live and Shopee 83% of users now use Shopee Live to help them decide what to buy. These livestreams provide more than just entertainment - with real-time demos, authentic seller interactions, and exclusive deals - they create a sense of trust that static product listings can't replicate. It's not just about what is cheapest, but why it's worth content, like Shopee Video, serve as quick, credible reviews that further build buyer confidence. Around 70% of respondents trust creator recommendations, especially when backed by strong seller ratings and verified user reviews. And when trying out new products or new sellers, nearly half of all respondents consider seller ratings and buyer reviews as their most important reference point. This shows a growing demand for social proof and transparency where product value includes social emerging trend marks a lasting evolution in Malaysian online shopping habits. Today's consumers aren't just clicking on the cheapest item - they're evaluating, comparing, and looking for proof of product quality. That means offering compelling deals and investing in real-time engagement, informative content, and trust-building response to the rise of smart shoppers, Shopee is actively expanding its affiliate ecosystem from driving more short-form content through Video Missions, nurturing high-quality creators via the Content Creator Club, and facilitating targeted affiliate matchmaking for sellers and brands. These efforts are beginning to show meaningful impact: in the recent Raya Bersama Shopee and 5.5 Fashion & Beauty Festival, affiliates contributed 1 in 3 orders, underscoring their powerful role in driving conversion through trusted, relatable content. This ongoing development reflects Shopee's commitment to equipping shoppers with richer, trusted content that supports smarter purchase decisions, ultimately helping sellers grow and contributing to long-term digital economic commitment is already delivering tangible results for local sellers like Mohd Naimran Nordin, founder of Adnaa, a brand known for elegant and affordable traditional wear. During the Raya Bersama Shopee campaign, Adnaa's sales grew by 170% through the use of Shopee's content-driven tools like Shopee Live and Shopee Video which Naimran shared, 'brought our designs to life, helping customers see the quality and fit in real-time.' During the campaign Adnaa saw orders grow across all features from Shopee Live (116%), Shopee Video (281%), and most impressively affiliate content (227%).Adnaa's success reflects why Shopee is doubling down on content and community. 'Today's shoppers are more informed than ever,' says Tan Ming Kit, Head of Marketing at Shopee Malaysia. 'They're not just looking for the lowest price - they're looking for confidence and meaningful value. That's why we've invested in tools like Shopee Live, Shopee Video, and driving affiliate content. We want to empower Malaysians to shop smarter and give sellers more ways to drive conversions through building credibility and connecting meaningfully.'This shift in smart shopping marks a lasting change. For brands and sellers, value is no longer just about price. It's about layering affordability with #Shopee The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement. Shopee Shopee is the leading e-commerce platform in Southeast Asia & Taiwan. Shopee promotes an inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem by enabling businesses to digitalise and grow their online presence, helping more people access and benefit from digital services, and uplifting local communities. Shopee offers an easy, secure, and engaging experience that is enjoyed by millions of people daily. Shopee is also a key contributor to the region's digital economy with a firm commitment to helping homegrown brands and entrepreneurs succeed in e-commerce. Shopee is part of Sea Limited (NYSE: SE), a leading global consumer internet company. Sea's mission is to better the lives of consumers and small businesses with technology through its three core businesses: Shopee, Garena and SeaMoney.
