• YouTube adds AI powered tools to simplify live streaming for creators.
• New features include dual format streams, live reactions, and auto generated Shorts.
• Viewers won’t miss the action during ads, thanks to a new side by side ad format.

YouTube has rolled out its biggest update yet for live streaming, aiming to make the experience more dynamic for creators and more engaging for viewers. The announcement came during the Made on YouTube event, where the platform introduced a range of AI powered tools and streaming features designed to boost discoverability, interaction, and ease of use.

One of the standout features is AI Highlights, a tool that automatically picks the best moments from a live stream and converts them into ready to upload YouTube Shorts. This is especially useful for creators who want to keep their content shareable and snackable for social media, without spending hours editing footage.

Another major upgrade is the ability to stream in both horizontal and vertical layouts at the same time, with a unified live chat. This means creators no longer have to choose between formats, and viewers can enjoy the stream in the orientation they prefer.

To help creators better prepare, YouTube is introducing a ‘Go Live Together Practice’ feature. This lets them rehearse their stream setup before going live, a useful way to avoid technical hiccups.

Creators can also now react live to ongoing streams, including those hosted by others. This opens up opportunities for real-time event commentary, collaborations, and reaction content.

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In terms of monetization, YouTube is testing a side by side ad format that plays ads without interrupting the stream. Creators can also switch streams from public to members only mid-broadcast, helping them serve exclusive content to paying subscribers.

YouTube’s Playables, interactive games for livestreams is expanding too, with over 75 titles now available for streamers to use during live sessions.

These updates are part of YouTube’s broader push to make live streaming smarter, more flexible, and creator first.