who is twitch owned by
Twitch is a live streaming platform that has taken the world by storm. It has quickly become a household name, with millions of users tuning in every day to watch their favorite content creators play video games, host talk shows, and showcase their talents. However, many people may not know who is behind this popular platform. In this article, we will dive into the history of Twitch and explore who exactly owns this live streaming giant.
Twitch was originally founded in 2007 by Justin Kan and Emmett Shear. The platform was initially created as a spin-off of Justin.tv, a live streaming platform that focused on general interest content. However, the founders quickly realized that there was a significant demand for live streaming of video games. In 2011, Justin.tv was shut down, and Twitch was officially launched as a standalone platform dedicated solely to gaming.
The success of Twitch was almost immediate, with a rapid increase in users and viewership. In 2013, Twitch had over 45 million unique viewers per month, and by 2014, it had become the fourth-largest source of peak internet traffic in the United States. This caught the attention of many big players in the tech industry, and in August 2014, Amazon announced its acquisition of Twitch for a whopping $970 million.
Amazon’s interest in Twitch was not surprising. The e-commerce giant had been looking to break into the live streaming market, and Twitch’s success made it a perfect fit. Additionally, Amazon had a history of investing in the gaming industry, with its Amazon Game Studios division developing and publishing video games. The acquisition of Twitch was seen as a strategic move to strengthen Amazon’s position in the gaming market.
Under Amazon’s ownership, Twitch continued to grow and expand its services. In 2016, the platform introduced Twitch Prime, a premium subscription service that offers ad-free viewing, free monthly channel subscriptions, and other benefits to its users. This move was seen as a way for Amazon to integrate Twitch into its larger ecosystem and attract more subscribers to its Prime membership.
In 2017, Twitch launched its affiliate program, allowing smaller streamers to monetize their channels through subscriptions, donations, and sponsorships. This move was seen as a competitive response to youtube -reviews”>YouTube ‘s monetization model for content creators. Twitch also expanded its content beyond gaming, with the introduction of IRL (In Real Life) streams, where streamers could broadcast their daily lives and activities.
In 2019, Twitch hit a significant milestone, surpassing 3 million monthly broadcasters and 15 million daily active users. This growth was partly attributed to the rise of esports, where professional gamers compete in tournaments and leagues for large cash prizes. Twitch has become the go-to platform for esports, with popular games such as League of Legends, Fortnite, and Overwatch being streamed to millions of viewers.
Despite its success, Twitch has faced some controversies over the years. In 2018, the platform faced backlash for its handling of the “Hot Tub Meta,” where female streamers would stream themselves in revealing clothing while sitting in a hot tub. Many users and content creators criticized Twitch for not enforcing its nudity and attire policies and allowing this type of content on the platform. This led to a debate about Twitch’s moderation policies and the role of sexuality in gaming.
In 2019, Twitch also faced a lawsuit from a former streamer, who claimed that the platform had violated her rights by unfairly banning her. The case was eventually settled out of court, but it raised concerns about the transparency and fairness of Twitch’s moderation process.
In 2020, Twitch faced another controversy when it was discovered that the platform had been promoting gambling streams without age restrictions. This led to criticism from parents and child safety advocates, who argued that Twitch was exposing young viewers to online gambling without proper safeguards.
Despite these controversies, Twitch has continued to grow and solidify its position as the leading live streaming platform. In 2021, the platform saw a significant increase in user engagement, with over 2 billion hours watched in the first quarter alone. This growth has attracted the attention of other tech giants, with rumors of potential acquisitions or partnerships with companies such as Google and Microsoft .
In conclusion, Twitch has come a long way since its humble beginnings as a spin-off of Justin.tv. The platform’s success and growth have made it an attractive acquisition target, with Amazon ultimately taking the reins and investing in its expansion. Under Amazon’s ownership, Twitch has continued to innovate and adapt to the changing landscape of live streaming, cementing its position as the go-to platform for gaming and esports content. As Twitch continues to evolve and grow, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for this live streaming giant.
most popular christmas gifts 2016 for kids
Title: The Most Popular Christmas Gifts for Kids in 2016: A Comprehensive Guide
Introduction:
Christmas is a time of joy, celebration, and gift-giving, particularly for children. As the year 2016 draws to a close, it is important to identify the most popular Christmas gifts that captivated the hearts and minds of kids during this festive period. This comprehensive guide will explore the top toys and trends that became the talk of the town, leaving children excited and parents scrambling to find the perfect presents. With a wide range of choices available, it’s essential to be aware of the most sought-after toys and games to ensure a memorable Christmas for the little ones.
1. Hatchimals:
One of the biggest hits of 2016 was the Hatchimals. These interactive, magical creatures were on every child’s wish list. Hatchimals begin their journey in an egg, and with love and care, they hatch to reveal a furry companion. The surprise factor and the ability to nurture and interact with the Hatchimals made them an instant sensation.
2. Nintendo NES Classic Edition:
For kids, and even adults, who love retro gaming, the Nintendo NES Classic Edition was a dream come true. This miniaturized version of the original Nintendo Entertainment System (NES) featured pre-installed classic games like Super Mario Bros., The Legend of Zelda, and Donkey Kong. It was a nostalgic trip down memory lane for many parents and a chance for kids to experience the iconic games that shaped the gaming industry.
3. Pokémon Sun and Moon:
As the Pokémon franchise continued to captivate audiences, the release of Pokémon Sun and Moon games for the Nintendo 3DS in 2016 created a frenzy among kids. With new Pokémon to catch, exciting adventures, and an engaging storyline, it was impossible for kids to resist the allure of becoming a Pokémon Trainer in the Alola region.
4. LEGO Sets:
LEGO has been a staple in the world of toys for decades, and 2016 was no exception. LEGO sets offered a wide range of themes, from superheroes to cityscapes, allowing children to unleash their creativity and build to their heart’s content. Sets like LEGO Star Wars, LEGO Friends, and LEGO City were particularly popular during the Christmas season.
5. Nerf N-Strike Elite Precision Target Set:
For kids who enjoy active play, the Nerf N-Strike Elite Precision Target Set was a top choice. This set provided target practice with foam darts, encouraging hand-eye coordination and friendly competition. With its accurate shooting and durable design, it quickly became a favorite among children and even parents who joined in the fun.
6. Shopkins:
Shopkins, the tiny collectible characters inspired by everyday grocery items, were a sensation in 2016. With their cute faces and vibrant colors, these miniature toys were highly sought after by children who loved playing and trading with friends to complete their collections. The variety of Shopkins playsets and accessories made it an endless source of imaginative play.
7. Barbie Dreamhouse:
Barbie has been an iconic toy for generations, and in 2016, the Barbie Dreamhouse continued to capture the hearts of young girls. This multi-level playset featured various rooms, accessories, and interactive elements, allowing kids to engage in imaginative role-playing scenarios and create their own Barbie adventures.
8. Paw Patrol Lookout Playset:
For fans of the popular animated series Paw Patrol, the Lookout Playset was a must-have Christmas gift. This interactive playset replicated the show’s central location, offering kids the opportunity to recreate rescue missions with their favorite Paw Patrol characters. With its working elevator and other exciting features, it provided endless hours of entertainment.
9. FurReal Friends Torch, My Blazin’ Dragon:
FurReal Friends always manage to capture the hearts of children, and in 2016, Torch, My Blazin’ Dragon stole the spotlight. This interactive plush dragon breathed mist and responded to touch and sound, creating a lifelike pet experience. Children could feed, play, and care for Torch, fostering a sense of responsibility and companionship.
10. Trolls Dolls and Accessories:
Following the success of the animated movie “Trolls,” the colorful and whimsical Trolls dolls and accessories became a popular choice for Christmas gifts in 2016. With their vibrant hair and fun personalities, these dolls brought the magic of the movie into children’s playrooms, allowing them to recreate their favorite scenes or imagine new adventures.
Conclusion:
As we reflect on the most popular Christmas gifts for kids in 2016, it becomes clear that interactive and imaginative toys dominated the market. From Hatchimals to LEGO sets, children were thrilled by toys that encouraged creativity, fostered role-playing, and provided interactive experiences. Whether it was through classic favorites like Barbie or the latest trends like Pokémon, these gifts brought joy and excitement to children during the holiday season. As we move forward, it will be interesting to see which toys and games will capture the hearts of children in the years to come, but for now, these memorable gifts of 2016 will forever hold a special place in the hearts of kids and parents alike.
ps4 parental controls password
Title: PS4 Parental Controls Password: A Comprehensive Guide to Protecting Your Child’s Gaming Experience
Introduction:
As gaming becomes an increasingly popular form of entertainment, it is crucial for parents to ensure that their children have a safe and age-appropriate gaming experience. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is through the use of parental controls. In this article, we will explore the importance of PS4 parental controls and guide you through setting up and managing a secure password to protect your child’s gaming experience.
Paragraph 1: Understanding the Importance of PS4 Parental Controls
The PlayStation 4 (PS4) is a powerful gaming system that offers a wide range of games, many of which are specifically designed for different age groups. However, not all games are suitable for children, and it is the responsibility of parents to ensure that their child’s gaming experience is safe and appropriate. PS4 parental controls provide a valuable tool to help parents manage and regulate their child’s access to games, content, and online interactions.
Paragraph 2: Setting Up Parental Controls on the PS4
To set up parental controls on your PS4, follow these steps:
1. Turn on your PS4 and go to the Settings menu.
2. Select Parental Controls/Family Management.
3. Choose the user account you want to apply parental controls to.
4. Select Restrict Use of PS4 Features.
5. Set a four-digit passcode to prevent unauthorized changes to the parental control settings.
6. Customize the settings based on your child’s age and maturity level.
Paragraph 3: The Importance of Having a Strong Password
When setting up parental controls on the PS4, it is crucial to create a strong password. A strong password is one that is difficult for others to guess or crack, ensuring that only authorized individuals can make changes to the settings. A weak password can jeopardize the effectiveness of parental controls, potentially exposing your child to unsuitable content or interactions.
Paragraph 4: Tips for Creating a Strong Password
To create a strong password for your PS4 parental controls, consider the following tips:
1. Use a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
2. Avoid using easily guessable information such as birthdays, names, or common phrases.
3. Make the password at least eight characters long.
4. Avoid using the same password for multiple accounts or devices.
5. Regularly update your password to ensure maximum security.
Paragraph 5: Remembering Your Password
It is essential to create a strong password for your PS4 parental controls, but it is equally important to remember it. Losing or forgetting the password can lead to inconvenience and potential issues with managing your child’s gaming experience. Consider using password management tools or writing it down in a secure location that is not easily accessible to others.
Paragraph 6: The Role of Parental Controls in Limiting Game Time
One of the significant benefits of PS4 parental controls is the ability to limit your child’s game time. Excessive gaming can lead to various negative outcomes, including reduced physical activity, poor academic performance, and social isolation. By setting time limits, parents can ensure a healthy balance between gaming and other activities.
Paragraph 7: Customizing Content Restrictions
The PS4 parental control settings allow parents to customize content restrictions based on their child’s age and maturity level. This feature ensures that children are not exposed to violent or explicit content that may not be suitable for their age group. By restricting access to inappropriate content, parents can create a safer gaming environment for their children.
Paragraph 8: Managing Online Interactions
Online gaming can offer a thrilling experience but also exposes children to potential risks such as cyberbullying, inappropriate conversations, and unwanted interactions with strangers. PS4 parental controls allow parents to manage and monitor their child’s online interactions, ensuring a safer and more controlled gaming environment.
Paragraph 9: The Importance of Regularly Reviewing and Updating Parental Control Settings
As children grow and mature, their gaming needs and preferences may evolve. It is crucial for parents to regularly review and update the parental control settings to align with their child’s age and maturity level. By staying proactive and involved, parents can ensure that their child’s gaming experience remains safe, enjoyable, and age-appropriate.
Paragraph 10: Conclusion
In conclusion, PS4 parental controls provide an invaluable tool for parents to protect their child’s gaming experience. By setting up a strong password and customizing the settings based on their child’s age and maturity level, parents can create a safe and age-appropriate gaming environment. Remember to regularly review and update the parental control settings to ensure ongoing effectiveness. Through these measures, parents can enjoy peace of mind knowing that their child is engaging in gaming responsibly.