Twitch Gives Tier 2 and 3 Subs GIF Chat Perk

Twitch has introduced a new perk for its higher-paying subscribers. The Amazon-owned platform announced on September 1 that Tier 2 and Tier 3 subscribers can now send GIFs directly in chat using a new GIF Keyboard powered by GIPHY.

How the GIF Feature Works

In channels where the feature is available, the GIF Keyboard is enabled by default. Eligible subscribers can access it by selecting the Emote icon in the chat window and switching to the GIFs tab. From there, they can search or browse GIPHY and select a GIF to send as a single chat message. Twitch has implemented a 30-second cooldown between GIF messages for each user.

Streamers retain control over the feature. Those who do not want GIFs in their chat can disable it through their subscription settings. All Tier 2 and Tier 3 subscribers in that channel will receive a notification if the perk is turned off.

Moderation and Content Controls

Twitch is applying its existing moderation systems to the new GIF messages. Streamers and their moderators can delete individual GIF posts. Furthermore, GIF searches respect AutoMod settings, meaning terms matching banned words or phrases will not return any results.

Existing chat restrictions also apply. Features like Emote-Only Mode and Shield Mode can prevent GIFs from being sent. Users who are timed out, banned, or otherwise restricted from chatting will similarly be unable to use the GIF Keyboard.

The company states that GIF messages are subject to its Community Guidelines just like any other chat message. Users are responsible for the GIFs they send. Stream content could be removed if a GIF that violates Twitch's policies appears on screen.

Platform Settings and Accessibility

The GIF Keyboard uses GIPHY's content ratings to filter available results. Twitch sets the default rating to PG. Streamers can choose the more restrictive G rating, which is intended for all ages.

Viewers have options too. Those who do not want animated GIFs playing in chat can disable animations through their chat appearance settings. This action replaces moving GIFs with static previews. On older or incompatible devices where GIFs cannot render, Twitch says the name of the GIF will be displayed instead.