YouTube has introduced new livestreaming features targeted at content creators. The updates were announced at its Made on YouTube event.

A key part of the changes is the launch of side-by-side ads. These are full video ads that appear on one half of the screen while the livestream continues on the other half. The new ad format runs in a separate section of the screen on the right. The company first introduced the format in May on TV and desktop.

The YouTube video player showing a side-by-side ad format, where a live stream continues on the left while a video ad plays on the right.

The idea is to reach audiences during live events without breaking the viewing flow. Instead of waiting for a mid-roll interruption, viewers can continue watching livestream content while also seeing the ad. According to the company, the format is designed to address creator concerns about interrupting key moments during live broadcasts.

New dual-format livestreams

YouTube is also upgrading livestreams with the option to broadcast in both horizontal and vertical formats at the same time. This means a live broadcast can soon reach both traditional widescreen viewers and vertical-first mobile users in one stream.

A single chat room will bring these viewers together so that community interaction stays unified. YouTube said the feature will expand to more creators “in the coming months.”

Expanding live interactions and reactions

YouTube is also allowing creators to launch vertical livestreams on mobile that react to other live events. For example, a gaming creator could watch and respond to another player’s event in real time.

The YouTube Studio interface for live streaming across formats, showing a creator's live broadcast being previewed in both horizontal and vertical formats at the same time.

The platform says this feature is meant to make livestreaming a shared event where creators of any size can add commentary or analysis in real time.

The YouTube mobile app showing a creator using the 'React Live' feature to host a vertical livestream where they provide commentary on another video playing at the top of the screen.

AI-powered highlights for Shorts

The company also announced AI-powered highlights. This tool automatically identifies and clips the most engaging moments from a livestream, turning them into Shorts that can be shared on the platform.

A mobile screen showing the YouTube app's 'Live recap' feature, which displays AI-generated video highlights from a past livestream for a creator to save as Shorts.

Gaming and interactive play

YouTube is also connecting livestreaming with its Playables games. Starting next month, some creators will be able to play games during a vertical livestream while chatting with their audience. This rollout is expected to expand later in the year.

A mobile screen showing the YouTube app's 'Playables on Live' feature, where a creator selects a game like 'Snake Clash' to play directly within their livestream.

The company is investing in tools that aim to make livestreaming more appealing to creators and advertisers. YouTube reported that over 30% of daily logged-in viewers watched live content in Q2 this year.

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