Simulcasting

Broadcasting the same live stream to multiple platforms simultaneously. Historically blocked by Twitch's Partner exclusivity clause; officially permitted across the board from 2024.

Overview

Simulcasting (or “multistreaming”) is the practice of broadcasting the same live feed to multiple platforms at once — typically using a relay service like Restream or a local OBS plugin. Until 2024, Twitch’s Partner Agreement explicitly prohibited simulcasting to “Twitch-like” services, effectively locking Partners out of Kick and YouTube Live.

2024 policy change

In 2024, Twitch lifted its simulcasting restriction for most creators, citing the need to keep pace with YouTube Live and Kick. The change was widely interpreted as a competitive concession and triggered a wave of creators adding secondary broadcasts.