Popular video game streaming platform Twitch has implemented a new anti-harassment feature that gives streamers the ability to prevent users they’ve banned from watching their livestreams.
Previously Limited to Chat Bans
Prior to this update, Twitch streamers could only ban troublesome users from participating in live chat during streams. However, banned users could still view the streamer’s live content. This allowed repeat offenders to continue harassing streamers simply by watching their broadcasts after being chat banned.
New Feature Blocks Viewing Capabilities
In August 2022, Twitch announced the new feature to block banned users from viewing streams in response to feedback from the streaming community. The company has now rolled out the capability to block banned users from watching livestreams in addition to participating in chat. Additionally, you can also read about- What is Real-time Streaming Protocol (RTSP)?
Integrated Into Existing Moderation Tools
Twitch has baked the new viewing ban into its existing moderation tools. So streamers who ban a user from chat will now automatically prevent that user from watching the livestream as well while logged into their Twitch account.
Limitations Remain
The streaming platform does not enforce IP bans, so a user who is blocked can still view the streamer’s live content in incognito mode or by logging out. Twitch has suggested further enhancements may prevent banned users from accessing other video content like VODs, clips, and highlights in the future. If you want you can also read- How to Activate Twitch TV on XBox, PlayStation, and Android
Gradual Rollout to All Streamers
Twitch indicates the updated feature is still slowly rolling out, so some streamers may gain access sooner than others. Streamers can activate the new capability by enabling “Stop banned users from viewing stream” in their Creator Dashboard moderation settings once available.
Threats Emerging to Twitch’s Dominance
While Twitch remains the most popular streaming service globally, rivals like Kick and X are launching features that may threaten Twitch’s market share. Kick offers creators 95% revenue share and X is testing new live streaming capabilities.
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