1. YouTube Cracks Down on AI Voices in Livestreams

YouTube updated its community guidelines to restrict deceptive synthetic voices used in livestreams — especially AI clones of celebrities or public figures. Channels must disclose synthetic media and may face strikes or removal if used to mislead viewers.

My take: This is a wake-up call for livestreamers using AI-generated voices or avatars. Transparency isn’t optional anymore — it’s the new baseline for trust.

2. TikTok Live Tests Subscriber-Only Mode

TikTok is quietly testing a “subscriber-only” livestream feature with select creators. The goal: help streamers monetize beyond gifts and tips by offering exclusive access to paying fans.

My take: This brings TikTok closer to Twitch’s core playbook. If rolled out widely, expect more creators to treat TikTok as a serious live platform — not just a short-form playground.

3. Spotify’s Video Push Signals Livestream Potential

Spotify rolled out full-screen vertical video previews for music, podcasts — and potentially, future livestreams. The move hints at a broader shift toward integrating real-time video into the app.

My take: Spotify already hosts video podcasts. The next step could be live — and if that happens, the competition for creators' attention just got even more interesting.

And that's your Livestream Universe Update 2.0 for Wednesday, July 16th, 2025. I'm Ross Brand.

🔗 Want to go deeper? Explore the original sources:YouTube restricts AI voices – Google SupportTikTok tests subscriber-only streams – Social Media TodaySpotify full-screen video previews – Digital Music News

Find Livestream Universe on Substack at rossbrandlive.substack.com.

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