In a surprising turn of events, popular streaming platform Twitch has rolled back its controversial Ad rules, following a wave of criticism and uproar from streamers and content creators. The controversial policy, which imposed sweeping restrictions on advertisements, had sparked concerns about the financial viability of event channels, including esports and charity streams.
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New Ad Rules Disrupt Traditional Methods of Running Ads on Twitch
Twitch’s new rules, unveiled Wednesday evening, sought to govern the way ads could be displayed on the platform. Notably, the rules targeted burned in ads, referring to pre-recorded commercials or advertisements embedded directly into the stream. Effective from July 1st, streamers would no longer be allowed to feature third-party display, video, or audio ads.
Backlash Erupts as Twitch Fails to Consult Streamers and Content Creators
The announcement caught many streamers off guard, as Twitch apparently failed to consult its ambassadors or content creators before implementing the changes. As news of the policy spread, an outcry erupted within the Twitch community, with streamers expressing their frustration and concern over the potential impact on their ability to earn a consistent income. Furthermore, charity organizations that relied on Twitch to raise funds also faced uncertainty regarding their future operations.
Streamers Rally on Social Media to Oppose New Ad Rules
To voice their opposition, streamers took to social media platforms en masse, decrying the new rules and their potential detrimental effects. The widespread backlash seemed to have caught Twitch’s attention, prompting the streaming giant to reassess its decision.
A message to Twitch. pic.twitter.com/uQl2eEbG6h
— OTK (@OTKnetwork) June 6, 2023
Twitch Issues Apology and Reverses Controversial Ad Rules Policy
In a public apology posted on Twitter, Twitch acknowledged the negative impact of the new branded content guidelines on streamers’ ability to collaborate with sponsors and increase their income from streaming. The platform expressed its recognition that sponsorships are vital to the growth and financial stability of streamers and affirmed that it would not interfere with streamers’ direct relationships with sponsors.
Yesterday, we released new Branded Content Guidelines that impacted your ability to work with sponsors to increase your income from streaming. These guidelines are bad for you and bad for Twitch, and we are removing them immediately.
— Twitch (@Twitch) June 7, 2023
Also Read: How to Watch Twitch on TV
Twitch’s Pledge to Improve Communication and Collaboration with the Community
Twitch emphasized its commitment to working with the community to create the best possible experience on the platform. The company admitted to the misstep and pledged to be more transparent in its decision-making process going forward. Twitch’s statement concluded by expressing gratitude for the feedback received and the collaborative effort to bring about this important change.
It remains to be seen how Twitch will navigate the delicate balance between advertising revenue and the concerns of its content creators in the future. However, as Twitch rolls back controversial ad rules policy: recent events have demonstrated the power of unity and the significant impact that creators can have on shaping the policies of the platforms they rely on.
Source: Twitch Content Guidelines
