YouTube’s latest monetization feature is a Twitch Bits ripoff

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Credit: Edgar Cervantes / Android Authority

• YouTube has taken a page from Twitch’s monetization strategy and introduced a new feature called Jewels.
• The feature will let viewers purchase a virtual currency during vertical live streams and buy gifts for the creator to show their support.
• Creators will earn another virtual currency, called Rubies, from the gifts they receive, with each Ruby valued at one cent.

YouTube is introducing a new way for creators on the platform to monetize their live streams. Inspired by Twitch Bits, YouTube’s new Jewels feature lets viewers buy a virtual currency they can spend during live streams to send creators various gifts.

YouTube says that Jewels will start rolling out to eligible creators who are part of the YouTube Partner Program and have accepted the Virtual Items Module in YouTube Studio over the coming weeks. Initially, the feature will only be available to creators in the US, and only US viewers will be able to purchase Jewels and send gifts. However, other viewers will be able to see the gifts sent during live streams.




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