Streaming ... talking to yourself?

Streaming means to share material using streaming technology. The data appears on the viewer's device only temporarily, at the time they watch the content. Most commonly, movies, music or photos are streamed. Real-time streaming is called live streaming, and this method is often used by broadcasters of sports events, making broadcasts of matches available online. Live streaming is also a modern marketing tool. Many companies conduct such broadcasts to connect with customers on social media. Streaming provides a chance to establish real-time relationships, engage in dialogue, and address concerns.

Streaming is also popular with many online creators. They see it as an easier way to reach their audience. You don't have to record and edit footage, for which you need the right equipment, skills and time. Being an online creator is now much easier, and importantly, streaming can be done by anyone with something interesting to share. Importantly, streaming is not talking to yourself, but a dialogue with the viewer in real time. This is a huge advantage of this form of media over traditional video content.

What can you talk about on streams? It all depends on your imagination. Popular are video game broadcasts, in which the hosts play various titles, presenting the gameplay to viewers and at the same time having conversations with them, answering questions. The ideas are many. There are also people talking about movies, books, culture, music... The possibilities are many. Looking for a way to make a name for yourself online? See what an educational platform available on the web has to offer and expand your knowledge on the subject. Webinar Universe platform is an interesting source of knowledge in various fields.

Streaming platforms

There are many platforms for streaming. Nowadays, many people use Facebook, Instagram, YouTube or TikTok, one of the most popular social media. However, it can be difficult to break through with this kind of content to a wider audience, so it's also worth checking out sites designed for live streaming. One of them is Twitch. This platform was founded in 2011 and allows streaming in one of many categories: games, music, talk-shows, travel, talks, competitions, tournaments. The most popular is undoubtedly gaming, and it is games that are the most watched. Immediately behind is the Just Chatting category, where the hosts share thoughts or advice with viewers.

How does the platform work? It features creators who conduct broadcasts and viewers who watch them, contribute and support their idols with monetary donations. To start streaming, you need a good Internet connection, a reasonably fast computer, a microphone and headphones. A camera with good quality video will also be useful. Then an interesting topic, gathering a growing audience and the recipe for success is ready. Twitch allows streamers to monetize their broadcasts. There are several ways to monetize. Obviously, the larger the audience, the more the chance for attractive earnings increases. To be able to earn, you must have at least 50 watchers and broadcast up to at least 500 minutes, run at least 7 different broadcasts and have had at least 3 viewers at a time - in the last month. A user can then become a Twitch Companion and get the chance to earn through: Subscriptions - users can subscribe to the channel, for which the creator receives money, Donations, or donejts - the streamer can place a button for donations, and viewers will voluntarily contribute small amounts, Bits points - virtual emoticons that users buy and can then use during streams, Sale of games and game items, The eCPM system - for every 1,000 views a streamer receives a certain amount of money, between $0.7 and $1.4, this rate increases with the views.

Streamers ... new influencers?

Almost anyone can stream on Twitch, who only has the desire and wants to communicate something to others. On the platform there are people who are exclusively engaged in broadcasting - for example, from games and already have their own community. This is a separate group of creators who can be called a group of new influencers. Thanks to their reach, they are able to interact with viewers and influence them, for example, creating the need to buy a recommended item or a new game they are currently playing.

Twitch also includes people known from other social media platforms, such as those who have a fan base on YouTube or Instagram. By operating in yet another place, they want to increase their reach, but also create a new source of income.

A new kind of advertising?

Twitch and running live streams in general offer many advantages from an advertising and marketing perspective. Real-time broadcasting gives more freedom to communicate with the viewer and makes it easier to showcase products. Many streamers use products from different brands during their broadcasts, thus increasing their awareness. In the case of gaming channels, this could be headphones, keyboards or... games. Options are plentiful here. You can also advertise yourself and talk about your own product to gain new customers.

Live streaming is a form of media that continues to grow in popularity. It fosters a closer relationship between the creator and the viewer due to the fact that the transmission takes place in real time. It is also an excellent marketing tool. Currently, still most streaming is about video games or e-sports, but there are enough categories for anyone who would like to join this community.