What is Different?
Tumblr had previously enabled streaming, but only by allowing users to share streams from other platforms like YouNow and YouTube. But the new option is a Livebox-powered native Tumblr streaming service. In the same way that Livebox users may tip streamers, Tumblr users can tip authors using a virtual currency called Diamonds. Livebox offers AI and human-powered stream moderating; the service also enables streamers to choose dependable viewers as moderators. As of right now, only people’s main Tumblr blogs are supported by the streaming service; any additional blogs connected to the same account are not.
The Motive
This new function of Livestreaming debuts as Automattic, the company that owns Tumblr, works to revive the blogging site it acquired from Verizon in 2019. Tumblr has benefited from the recent instability at Twitter by emerging as a viable substitute for the disorganised policies of new owner Elon Musk. Its streaming function won’t likely replace Twitch or YouTube, but it gives the artist-heavy community another media and a new revenue stream.
Availability
The new Livestreaming update is anticipated to roll out soon, and users will be able to access it by simply updating their Tumblr apps on iOS and Android. The update on the web will follow soon.