Twitch allows more sexual content in livestreams
A change to the guidelines for livestreams on Twitch now allows more revealing content - but only if it is labelled accordingly.
Update 18.12.2023: Twitch has already withdrawn some of the changes. You can find out more here.
The Community Guidelines on Twitch regulate what content streamers are allowed to show on the live streaming platform. Following an update, content that previously fell into a grey area or was completely prohibited is now permitted.
Pornographic content was and is generally not permitted. However, for years there have been debates about where art and permissiveness end and where pornography begins. When drawing a naked figure in a stream, an artist could previously be banned from Twitch - or not: the rules were vague and were also interpreted inconsistently by the Twitch moderation team. The size and fit of a bikini also led to discussions and banned accounts.
Correct labelling is key
According to Twitch, the new guidelines are intended to provide more clarity: above all, they allow streamers more freedom of movement. In return, they must label their streams "Sexual Content". You will not see a preview of streams with this labelling on the start page if you do not want to watch them.
In the past, there was confusion about the labelling because different possibilities could apply. The labelling rules have therefore been standardised.
In concrete terms, this previously prohibited content is now permitted if correctly labelled:
- the "deliberate display of the chest, buttocks or pelvic area", even when fully clothed,
- "painted, animated or moulded" naked breasts, genitals and buttocks,
- erotic dances, for example striptease - but without complete undressing
Further information on the updated guidelines can be found directly on Twitch.
Also on Twitch: sex sells
Twitch is a live streaming platform that originally emerged from gaming streams. However, there are now livestreams for almost every conceivable activity. For example, you can watch farmers working in the fields or DJs at the mixing desk.
Despite the ban on pornography, some, predominantly female streamers use Twitch as a platform for sexually explicit content. A few years ago, the number of so-called hot tub streams rose sharply: Here, female streamers in skimpy bikinis sat in a paddling pool and played with sponge and soap. Sometimes tens of thousands of viewers watched.
This caused a lot of discussion, as these streams were prominently displayed on the Twitch homepage due to the high number of viewers. Eventually, Twitch felt compelled to introduce a special category, "Hot Tub and Beaches", and ban them from the homepage. However, the measure did not put a definitive end to revealing streams.
By the way: why not take a look at our Twitch channel. This is where our gaming experts play new games - with their clothes on.
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Feels just as comfortable in front of a gaming PC as she does in a hammock in the garden. Likes the Roman Empire, container ships and science fiction books. Focuses mostly on unearthing news stories about IT and smart products.