Twitch has officially started testing vertical livestreams, introducing a TikTok-style format to its platform. This move signals a significant shift for the popular game streaming service, which is now experimenting with mobile-first features to attract a broader audience. The update was first revealed during TwitchCon Rotterdam in May 2025, and new evidence from market analytics firm AppSensa confirms that vertical livestreaming is now in alpha testing with a limited number of streamers.
According to AppSensa’s app code analysis, the latest Twitch app update includes references to a vertical viewing mode called “Vertical Theatre”, complete with a redesigned user interface tailored for mobile users. First-time viewers of vertical streams will be greeted with a welcome prompt: “Vertical Video is Here,” encouraging users to explore the new format.
This feature will allow viewers to switch between vertical and classic horizontal views, offering more flexibility depending on the user’s device and viewing preference. Creators, especially those who stream on mobile, will see improved audio and video controls, enhancing production quality without needing professional equipment.
Twitch is also working on enabling dual-format streaming, allowing creators to broadcast in both vertical and horizontal formats at the same time. This means content will be optimized for both mobile and desktop users, increasing visibility and accessibility. Additionally, Twitch is introducing the option to stream in up to 2K resolution, promising crisper, higher-quality livestreams.
The rise of vertical video content—pioneered by platforms like TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels—has transformed how people consume content on mobile devices. Now Twitch, the world’s largest live streaming platform, is adapting to this fast-growing trend. By doing so, Twitch aims to stay competitive and relevant, especially with younger mobile-first audiences.
For creators, this new format offers exciting opportunities to reach viewers who prefer watching content in portrait mode. And for Twitch, it’s a bold move that blends the social-first engagement of short-form vertical video with the interactivity of livestreaming.
Although still in testing, vertical livestreams are expected to roll out more broadly in the coming months, depending on performance and user feedback. With this update, Twitch looks to redefine mobile streaming and embrace the future of vertical content.