Introduction
YouTube has launched a new monetization feature called “Gems and Gifts“ to help creators earn more revenue from live streaming. This feature offers viewers a digital tool to support their favorite content creators, particularly those hosting vertical live streams on mobile devices. With Gems, viewers can instantly showcase their support in a visible and impactful way, building a stronger connection between creators and their audience.
How the Gems and Gifts Feature Works
The “Gems” on YouTube are virtual items that viewers can purchase in bundles and use as “Gifts” during live streams. This feature allows viewers to support YouTube creators instantly without needing to make repeat purchases. When a Gift is sent, an animation appears on the screen, creating a real-time connection between the YouTube creator and the viewer.
This seamless process enhances the interactive experience on YouTube, making it easier for creators to engage with their audience. It also offers YouTube creators a consistent way to monetize their streams while ensuring viewers enjoy a fun and rewarding way to show their appreciation.
Earn Income by Sending Gifts
The new income model lets creators earn through Gems, which are converted into “Rubies”, a virtual currency. For every Gift sent, creators earn Rubies—each Ruby being worth approximately 1 cent. Accumulating 100 Rubies translates to $1 in earnings.
This system offers a scalable revenue model, catering to both creators with a massive audience and those with smaller, loyal communities.
Currently, the feature is available exclusively to creators participating in YouTube’s Partner Program in the U.S. While all users can view the Gifts, only U.S. viewers can purchase Gems and send Gifts. Creators can access this feature through the YouTube mobile app or third-party streaming tools when hosting vertical live streams.
Gems and Gifts Increase Viewer Interaction
The Gems and Gifts feature makes it easier for viewers to support creators compared to existing options like Super Stickers. Gifts instantly appear on-screen during vertical live streams, while Super Stickers are limited to the live chat area. This gives Gifts a unique advantage in boosting engagement, particularly in the vertical format, which is highly popular among younger audiences.
YouTube has also launched a three-month bonus campaign for eligible creators. During this period, creators can earn an additional 50% bonus on their monthly earnings from Gems. This initiative encourages creators to maximize their use of the feature and deepen their ties with the platform.
To address common queries, YouTube has provided information about revenue-sharing ratios, differences between Super Stickers and Gifts, and more. Moreover, YouTube plans to expand this feature to other countries in the future.
By introducing Gems and Gifts, YouTube not only provides a new revenue stream for creators but also gives viewers an engaging way to support their favorite content makers.