YouTube is introducing a new feature called “Jewels,” aimed at providing live streamers with an additional source of income. This feature will allow viewers to buy digital stickers and use them during vertical live streams, offering creators more opportunities to monetize their content.
The Jewels feature will let users send animated digital gifts to their favorite streamers during live sessions. These gifts, when displayed on-screen, create an interactive experience for both the audience and the streamer. The revenue generated from these digital stickers will be shared with the content creators, enabling them to earn Rubies for each gift received.
For every Ruby, creators will earn one cent, which means 100 Rubies will translate into one dollar. Moreover, eligible creators will receive a 50% bonus on their Jewels earnings during the initial three months of the feature’s rollout.
Initially, the feature will be launched exclusively in the United States. Creators enrolled in the YouTube Partner Program in the U.S. will gain access to Jewels in the coming weeks. While only American viewers will be able to purchase these digital gifts at first, audiences worldwide will be able to view them during live streams.
Jewels will work specifically on YouTube’s mobile app for vertical live streams, aligning with the growing trend of vertical video content.
This initiative reflects YouTube’s ongoing efforts to support creators with innovative tools, fostering engagement and providing new ways to earn through their passion.