There is talk of YouTube launching a new live streaming service to gamers. It will be the company’s answer to Twitch.tv, and the emerging trend of video gaming streaming.
According to PC World, the launch of the new YouTube Live service could happen at the E3 gaming conference in June.
What Is Live Streaming?
In recent years, there has been a huge surge of gamers broadcasting their activities online. On Twitch.tv, you can tune in and watch individuals playing just about any video game. Viewers can chat amongst each other and interact with the player.
There are now many gamers who make their living by live streaming while they play video games. Viewers who enjoy watching them play can donate to them or purchase merchandise which allows them to continue playing video games for a living.
What Can YouTube Offer That Twitch Can’t?
If you’ve ever watched a live stream on Twitch, you will know that the video quality is not entirely consistent and there can be significant chat delays. YouTube is known for offering up high-quality video streaming services, which ensures that its product will be competitive with Twitch’s.
Another important factor is the payment of streamers. On YouTube, partners can make quite a lot of money through advertising and other programs.
While Twitch Partners offers a lucrative opportunity for streamers, very few actually generate enough views to get paid. This would not only encourage viewers to have a preference for YouTube – but streamers as well.
How Does This Apply to Online Gambling?
Twitch already offers live video game streaming services, and poker players have caught on to the trend. Poker pros like Kristy Arnett, David Sklansky and Jason Somerville have their own Twitch channels, on which viewers can watch them play poker online.
PokerStars even has its own Twitch channel, which is not limited to online play. Viewers can watch live streams of poker tournaments around the world that are hosted by the online poker provider.
Can Other Types of Gambling Get Involved?
Sure, why not? As a skill game, poker is certainly more interesting to watch than other types of casino games – but there could be a market for it. Online casino players could watch streams of live dealer games or slots tournaments, offering up some excitement when they do not fancy actually spending money.
Casino operators could certainly make live streaming work for them, and there are plenty of opportunities available.
