Twitch Unveils Vertical Streaming, 2K Video, and New Monetization Tools at TwitchCon

Twitch just wrapped its keynote at TwitchCon Rotterdam 2025, marking the streaming giant’s 10th anniversary of in-person events with a wave of feature announcements.

The Amazon-owned platform is doubling down on mobile-first streaming, creator monetization, and streaming innovation to remain competitive in the evolving digital content landscape.

What Is Twitch's New Vertical & Dual-Format Streaming?

One of the most groundbreaking announcements is dual-format streaming — allowing streamers to simultaneously broadcast in horizontal and vertical video layouts.

This feature optimizes the mobile viewing experience, letting users watch streams vertically on their phones with better access to chat, Hype Trains, subscriptions, gifting, and cheers — all while in full screen.

Twitch is partnering with Aitum Vertical and OBS for this rollout, testing the feature with select creators this summer before a broader launch later in 2025.

Twitch Now Supports 2K Streaming

Twitch is also expanding its 2K (1440p) streaming beta. Creators will benefit from higher bitrates and HEVC codec support, offering better video quality with less bandwidth consumption.

New Monetization Features for Streamers

Twitch is taking major steps to make content creation a viable career for more streamers:

• Combos: A new beta feature, Combos let viewers join forces during hype moments by sending themed Bit reactions that grow in impact (e.g., explosions of DancingDinos or CutieCats).

• Streamer-Led Gift Sub Promotions: Creators can now run their own sub promotions — like for stream anniversaries — up to 70 hours per year. Bundles of 5+ gift subs will be discounted up to 35% during these events.

• Early Monetization Access: Even non-Affiliates will gain access to select monetization tools, such as using earned funds to purchase Bits or gift subs before reaching payout thresholds (most controversial so far).

Twitch Helps Creators Capitalize on Clips

A new Clip toolset feature is being developed to help streamers capitalize on their best moments. These tools will automatically suggest clips from the most engaging parts of streams, making it easier for creators to review and publish highlights within minutes of finishing their broadcasts.

Twitch also announced:

• Clip Leaderboards with Top Clipper badges

• Reactions for Clips

• Improved in-stream clipping UI

Rewind and Watch Streaks Boost Viewer Engagement

For viewers who join late or step away, Twitch will begin testing a rewind function. Users can skip back during a stream and then catch up live — a long-requested feature.

Twitch is also improving Watch Streaks, allowing users to maintain their streaks by watching VODs or Clips if they miss a live stream.

Moderator Tools and Community Appreciation

Coinciding with Mod Appreciation Day, Twitch introduced:

• Mobile Mod View for Android

• Twitch Moderators Club, a private Discord for moderators to collaborate, access resources, and share strategies.

Final Thoughts

Twitch’s ambitious announcements position it to compete more directly with TikTok and YouTube by focusing on mobile usability and community tools. With streamers like Asmongold pushing toward multistreaming and platforms like X and Kick entering the mix, Twitch’s updates could be pivotal in retaining top talent and viewer engagement.