Patreon has begun testing a built-in livestreaming feature, aiming to streamline the way creators connect with their audiences in real time—without needing to rely on external tools.
Highlights
Initially launched to a limited number of testers, the feature is expected to become more widely available later this year.
This new capability allows creators to broadcast directly from the Patreon website or mobile app, reducing dependence on platforms such as YouTube, Vimeo, or Crowdcast.
For creators who previously juggled multiple software tools like OBS or Streamlabs, Patreon’s native livestreaming brings simplicity and cohesion to content distribution.
One of the feature’s standout aspects is its flexibility. Unlike other platforms that limit stream duration—TikTok Live, for instance, caps sessions at 60 minutes, while Twitch imposes a 48-hour streaming limit—Patreon imposes no maximum runtime.
This means creators can host sessions that span hours or even days. However, the amount of archived content a creator can retain will still depend on their subscription tier.
Viewers can engage with livestreams via live chat, emoji reactions, and other interactive elements. Moderation tools are included to help larger communities maintain a respectful and organized environment during broadcasts.
Monetization and Access Options
Patreon’s approach is rooted in offering creators greater control over monetization. Livestreams can be reserved for paying subscribers or opened up to the public, depending on a creator’s strategy.
Past streams can also be saved and placed behind a paywall, creating new avenues for earnings and long-term content value. Videos on demand (VODs) can be sold after the livestream concludes, extending monetization opportunities beyond the live event itself.
Compatibility with Existing Streaming Setups
Despite offering native livestreaming, platform has retained compatibility with third-party production software such as OBS and Streamlabs.
This allows creators who prefer more advanced broadcasting tools to maintain their existing workflows while still leveraging Patreon’s platform for audience engagement and monetization.
Expanded Community Engagement Features
In addition to livestreaming, Patreon is enhancing interactive tools to strengthen creator-audience connections. Features like live chat, moderation capabilities, and audience reactions are designed to create a more personal and responsive viewer experience.
Building on Recent Acquisitions
The rollout builds on Patreon’s strategic acquisition of Moment in 2023—a ticketed livestreaming startup known for hosting high-profile events for artists like Justin Bieber and Tame Impala.
The integration of Moment’s expertise is expected to further elevate the livestreaming capabilities offered within their ecosystem.
Positioning Within the Broader Livestreaming Landscape
With this update, Patreon enters the competitive livestreaming space currently occupied by platforms such as Twitch and Substack.
Its approach, however, emphasizes an ad-free environment, monetization flexibility, and integrated community management—differentiators that align with Patreon’s broader vision of supporting independent creators.
Limitations
While the new livestreaming feature brings many enhancements, it currently lacks co-hosting functionality.
Creators wishing to stream with guests will need to rely on external tools for the time being. This limitation points to the feature’s early stage of development, though future iterations may address this gap.
Although no specific updates have been confirmed, they recently introduced features such as membership gifting—indicating that further monetization tools could be integrated into livestreaming experiences in future releases.
For now, the rollout provides a more seamless, platform-native option for creators seeking to engage audiences and build income directly within Patreon.
