YouTube Rolls Out Live Gifting for Vertical Streams to Compete with TikTok

YouTube is about to introduce a new feature that will allow creators to monetize their vertical live streams. A digital currency called “Jewels” has recently been introduced so that viewers can send “gifts” to creators. Animated gifts are shown on the screen during vertical live streams.

Using this feature, users can show their support for live creators by sending them gifts of a specific monetary value, much as TikTok’s live giving option.

Creators will receive “Rubies” when viewers send presents on YouTube using Jewels. For every Ruby, creators earn one cent; so, for every hundred Rubies, creators get one dollar.

The number of Rubies earned can fluctuate because there is no fixed effective revenue share and the price of Jewels on YouTube can vary depending on package options.

YouTube Adds 50% Bonus on Vertical Stream Gifts for Creators

The video-sharing site has announced that for the next three months, creators who qualify can receive a 50% bonus on gift profits, up to $1,000 per month, on top of their usual Ruby earnings.

Streaming vertically on YouTube or using third-party streaming software is the only way for creators to receive presents.

Meanwhile, in reaction to the popularity of gifts on TikTok Lives, YouTube has introduced a new tool called “Super Stickers” in the chat tab. This allows viewers to show their support for live streamers.

According to YouTube, “Super Stickers” will no longer be available to eligible creators once they enable gifts on their vertical livestreams. The site believes that gifts are a better method for fans to visually support their favorite live creators.

It is worth mentioning that eligible creators in the US will be able to access the new monetization option in the coming weeks.