YouTube Launches Digital Jewels Feature to Rival TikTok's Virtual Gifting System
YouTube is introducing digital 'jewels' as a new virtual gifting system for creators during livestreams, similar to TikTok's coins and Twitch's bits. This feature is rolling out across the US for eligible YouTube Partner Program creators.
YouTube Jewels gifting pop-up window
Key features of YouTube's jewels system:
- Viewers can purchase jewels with real money
- Gifts appear on screen during livestreams
- Creators earn "rubies" valued at one cent each
- No fixed revenue share as jewel costs may vary
- 50% bonus earnings (up to $1,000/month) for first three months
Important limitations:
- Only works on vertical livestreams
- Gifts can only be sent through YouTube mobile app
- Creators enabling gifts cannot receive Super Stickers
- Limited to direct YouTube streams or third-party streaming software
This move follows the success of similar virtual gifting features on platforms like TikTok, where digital gifts have proven highly engaging but sometimes controversial, with reports of excessive spending by viewers.
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