Twitch has unveiled a series of new features at TwitchCon Rotterdam 2025 that will significantly enhance the streaming experience on the platform. The announcements mark important steps to improve both the quality of content and flexibility for viewers and creators. Particularly in focus: the introduction of 1440p streaming, the possibility of vertical streams on mobile devices and a new rewind function for live content.
- 1440p (2K) streaming is now being rolled out widely for partners and affiliates
- Vertical streams and dual layout for mobile viewers to launch in summer
- Rewind function allows rewinding of live streams
- Improved user experience for mobile devices and more interaction
Sharper, smoother, more efficient: 1440p streaming for more details
With the expansion of 2K streaming to 1440p resolution, Twitch is sending a clear signal for more visual quality. Streams in 1440p not only offer significantly more detail than Full HD (1080p), but also use the modern HEVC codec. This allows better picture quality at lower bit rates – a technical improvement that benefits both streamers and viewers.
This is made possible by Twitch’s own Enhanced Broadcasting technology, which automatically adjusts the video quality to the viewer’s available bandwidth. This makes annoying buffering a thing of the past. The 1440p rollout will initially start for Twitch partners and affiliates. Access will be staggered via a waiting list.
This is a significant step forward, especially for streamers with high-quality setups. The additional sharpness is particularly noticeable for fast-paced games, creative projects or technical presentations. In conjunction with the planned expansion to 4K in the future, Twitch could even compete with YouTube livestreams in the long term. You can now sign up for the 2K streaming beta.
Vertical streams: optimized for smartphones
Another highlight is the introduction of vertical video formats. This is Twitch’s response to changing user behavior, especially on mobile devices. With the new dual-layout streaming, streamers can broadcast in both classic landscape format and vertical portrait format at the same time. The appropriate stream is displayed depending on the orientation of the smartphone.
In cooperation with Aitum Vertical, the feature will initially be available via OBS. The aim is to enable a fully optimized view on smartphones with interactive chat, hype trains and support functions such as subs and bits. This will not only give users a better overview, but also more intuitive operation.
For streamers, this opens up the opportunity to create targeted content for mobile users without neglecting desktop viewers. The vertical view will initially be tested in a closed test phase with selected channels in the summer and then gradually rolled out.
Rewind made easy: Twitch tests rewind feature
One of the most requested features on Twitch is now becoming a reality: the ability to rewind live streams. The new rewind function allows viewers to catch up on missed moments without having to leave the stream completely. They can then return directly to the live broadcast.
The feature will be tested with a small group of viewers later this summer before it is rolled out more widely. This will make Twitch more flexible for anyone who can’t always be there live on time or has to take a short break.
Technically, Rewind is based on the existing VOD functions, but will be integrated directly into the player. The aim is to create a smooth transition between past and current live broadcasts. For many viewers, this should significantly increase convenience without having to rely on clips or external tools.
Conclusion
With 1440p streaming, vertical video formats and a rewind function, Twitch is setting the course for a more modern, more flexible streaming experience. The platform not only improves the quality and accessibility of streams, but also creates new opportunities for viewer retention and content creation. Some of the new features are already being rolled out or will start this summer in selected test groups. Prices or specific hardware requirements for the new features are not yet known, but access will initially be reserved for Twitch partners and affiliates.
