Twitch Testing New Browser Tab Layout to Boost Discoverability for Content Creators
Twitch is currently experimenting with an updated version of its website’s browser tab, aiming to enhance discoverability for creators of content.
Despite being one of the most-watched livestreaming platforms for over a decade, Twitch’s layout has remained largely unchanged. However, recent months have seen significant modifications to the platform, as Twitch has scaled back several features to streamline its services. The forthcoming alteration to Twitch’s browse feature may be the most radical change to the website’s layout since its inception.
Early images of the new browser layout were shared by Zach Bussey and LowcoTV. When browsing through a game’s streamer directory, users will now find the most popular live stream displayed at the top of the screen. This featured broadcast occupies a significant portion of the screen space and prominently showcases the live chat and the broadcaster’s follow button.
The featured stream will eventually rotate, giving other broadcasters opportunities to attract potential viewers in the Twitch category. After one minute, the featured stream pauses, and users are presented with the option to either join the stream or preview another content creator.
While users can still browse channels in the traditional scrolling and sorting manner, this prospective feature has received mixed anticipation from users. Some Twitter users, such as Knightset, have criticized the obtrusive size of the unchangeable featured broadcast.
Others are cautious that this might be another way for Twitch to serve ads to a wider audience. However, Twitch’s principal product manager, Steve Mz, has assured viewers that there will be no ads during the short streamer previews.
The new layout is still being developed and may undergo further changes before its official implementation. At present, only selected viewers have access to or can view this new feature.