New feature could boost creator earnings and reduce reliance on third-party tools
Patreon is rolling out native livestreaming for the first time, giving select creators early access to a long-requested feature that eliminates the need for external platforms like YouTube, Vimeo, or OBS. The test begins this week, with broader availability expected later this summer.
The built-in livestreaming feature enables creators to broadcast directly via the Patreon mobile app or website — with no time limits. That means creators can, theoretically, stream 24/7 if they choose, a flexibility that outpaces TikTok’s 60-minute livestream cap and Twitch’s 48-hour limit. YouTube allows unlimited streaming but limits users to around 10 separate sessions per day.
In addition to video, Patreon’s livestreams include live chat with emoji reactions, chat moderation tools, and the ability to schedule streams in advance — all within the platform’s ecosystem. By removing the need for third-party integrations, Patreon is aiming to streamline the creator experience and avoid the ad-heavy, cluttered environments of other streaming platforms.
Crucially, live video opens new monetization opportunities. Creators can choose to stream exclusively for paying members or broadcast freely to draw in a wider audience. Recordings of streams can also be shared later, either publicly or behind a paywall as a one-time purchase.
While the new feature is a significant step toward helping creators build tighter, more lucrative fan communities, it’s not without limitations. For example, Patreon does not yet support native co-hosting, though creators can work around this via third-party tools like OBS or Streamlabs.
Although Patreon hasn’t announced formal monetization features tied to livestreaming, the company hinted at future enhancements. A spokesperson pointed to its existing membership gifting feature as a potential fit, suggesting that similar tools might soon be integrated into live video.
As competition from platforms like YouTube, Twitch, and TikTok intensifies, Patreon’s push into livestreaming could give it an edge by offering creators more autonomy and better tools to engage their most loyal fans — all without leaving the platform.
