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Can YouTube Make Livestreaming Its Next big Thing?

On June 18,2024,a view of the lobby of YouTube headquarters located in Sanbruno,California,USA. On September 16, 2025, YouTube announced the largest feature update since the introduction of real-time broadcasting features at the end of 2013. [뉴욕타임스]

The company that pushed podcasts from our earbuds to our television screens is making another wager.

YouTube believes livestreaming is “at a similar inflection point” as video podcasting was roughly four years ago and is primed to become a “cultural phenomenon,” said Toni Reid, a vice president of product management at the company.

Significant Updates to Livestreaming

On Tuesday, the platform announced its most significant product updates to livestreaming since late 2013, when it began offering creators the ability to broadcast in real time. The updates make it easier for novices to start streaming, for experienced creators to produce more sophisticated broadcasts, and for viewers to discover live content.

Key Improvements for Creators

• Simplified Setup: youtube is introducing a streamlined mobile streaming experience, allowing creators to go live with just a few taps.
• Enhanced Production Tools: new features include improved tools for managing live chats, adding guests, and moderating content.
• Pinning comments & Polls: Creators can now pin vital comments and launch polls during their streams to increase engagement.

Boosting Discovery for viewers

YouTube is also focusing on making it easier for viewers to find livestreams they’ll enjoy.

“We’re trying to make it easier for viewers to stumble upon live content that they’re going to love,” Reid explained. “We want to make it as easy as finding a video.”

this includes:

• Live Tab Updates: The Live tab on the YouTube app is being redesigned to showcase trending livestreams and personalized recommendations.
• Notifications: Viewers will receive more relevant notifications about upcoming livestreams from channels they subscribe to.
• Improved Search: Search results will prioritize livestreams that match a user’s interests.

The Competitive Landscape

YouTube faces stiff competition in the livestreaming space from platforms like Twitch, which is heavily focused on gaming, and Kick, a newer platform gaining traction. Though, YouTube has a massive existing user base and a diverse content library, giving it a significant advantage.

youtube vs. Twitch: A Quick Comparison