Twitch Removes Monetization Lock, Adds Advanced Clip Editing and Discovery Tools

Twitch is rolling out major updates in 2025, including day-one monetization for all streamers, Shared Hype Trains for collaborations, and improved mobile and clip-sharing features. These changes were outlined in an open letter from Twitch CEO Dan Clancy detailing the platform’s 2025 plans.

Previously, streamers had to meet specific requirements to unlock monetization: Affiliate status required 50 followers, at least 500 total minutes streamed in the past 30 days, and an average of three concurrent viewers, while Partner status required even higher benchmarks, including an average of 75 concurrent viewers. Even then, getting enrolled in a partner program was not guaranteed. Now, subscriptions and Bits will be available to most streamers from the start, allowing them to earn money immediately.

Twitch is also making it easier to collaborate with other creators, introducing Shared Hype Trains, mobile-friendly Shared Chat, and discovery tools to help smaller streamers connect. Meanwhile, the mobile app will get vertical video support and faster content discovery. In addition, Twitch is expanding its sponsorship program, making it easier for streamers to partner with brands through new promotional tools.

One of the biggest content updates will focus on clips, giving creators more control over editing and sharing their best moments. New tools will allow for smoother clip editing, automatic highlight detection, and real-time clip creation during streams. Twitch also plans to introduce performance insights, so creators can track how their clips contribute to audience growth across Twitch and other platforms.

Currently, Twitch takes a 50/50 revenue split on subscriptions for Affiliates and most Partners, though some high-profile streamers have secured 70/30 splits through special agreements. Twitch has faced criticism over this structure, especially compared to YouTube’s 70/30 standard split for its gaming creators. While the company hasn’t announced changes to revenue shares, these new updates suggest a shift toward broadening monetization access rather than adjusting payout percentages.

Twitch is also revamping moderation by expiring low-severity violations and upgrading tools like Mobile Mod View for Android. Additionally, streamers will get more ways to edit and share clips, while new Bit-based reactions and Power-ups will let viewers interact with streams in real time. The company says these updates aim to boost creator earnings and engagement while improving the overall streaming experience.