TikTok started testing a subscription service project called “TikTok LIVE” on May 26, allowing viewers to pay to subscribe to the live host they want to support, and the hosts can increase their income by sharing exclusive live with paid subscription viewers.

TikTok said: LIVE subscriptions are an extension of TikTok’s efforts to build diverse creator monetization opportunities that meet the needs of a variety of creators. LIVE subscriptions give creators the opportunity to grow their income while continuing to grow their communities, and also give participating communities the opportunity to regularly thank their favorite creators.

Subscribers who pay monthly will get access to a range of exclusive features, including:

Subscriber Badges: Subscribers receive badges that appear next to their name on their profile and level up over time.

Custom Emotes: Subscribers can access exclusive emotes custom-designed by the creator to use during live sessions, bringing the community together and making your sessions more active.

Subscriber only chat: When subscriber only chat is turned on, creators and their subscribers have exclusive access to each other, enhancing a more personal connection between creators and viewers.

It is reported that in addition to the usual subscriber benefits, subscribers can also control the camera of the creator’s live. Additionally, badges will update the longer viewers subscribe, providing more visibility for long-term subscribers, and creators will be able to personalize their LIVE rooms.

TikTok stipulates that creators must be at least 18 years old and have at least 1,000 followers to access the LIVE subscription feature, while users must be 18 years old to purchase subscriptions and receive coins and gifts.

According to TechCrunch, the price of a TikTok LIVE subscription will be comparable to that of Twitch’s subscription service, which starts at $4.99 per month (up to $24.99 per month), and Twitch will take a 30%-50% cut of subscription revenue. .

TikTok is stepping up competition with Twitch, YouTube and more in the paid subscription space

The TikTok LIVE subscription service is similar to YouTube’s Super Chat plan, Facebook’s Stars plan, and Twitch’s Cheering function in terms of positioning and content. They all use paid subscription services to obtain custom tools or privileged functions, and increase the relationship with creators in live broadcasts. interactive.

According to information posted by TikTok to its @TikTokLIVE_creator account, the program officially launched testing on May 26, initially inviting a certain number of creators to participate, and then opening up globally in the coming months.