The Rise of Alternative Streaming Platforms: SharePlay and LiveSpace Leading the Way

Hey everyone! Josh here from 2tonwaffle.com. It's been a while since I've written about the state of alternative streaming platforms, and there have been some exciting developments I want to share with you all.

As many of you know, I'm passionate about helping creators discover platforms beyond the usual suspects like Twitch and YouTube. Today, I want to dive into two promising newcomers: SharePlay and LiveSpace. Both platforms are taking fresh approaches to live streaming, and I've had the chance to test them out firsthand.

SharePlay: A Cozy New Streaming Home

Let's start with SharePlay, which is currently in closed alpha testing. What immediately stands out about SharePlay is its clean, user-friendly interface and excellent video quality. During my test week, I was impressed by how smooth the streaming experience was at 1080p.

One of SharePlay's unique features is their monetization system. They've implemented what I call "Play Coins" (think Twitch bits) that viewers can purchase to support creators. What's cool is how they've gamified the experience – when someone uses these coins, it triggers unique animations and overlays that don't interfere with the actual stream content.

The platform is taking a measured approach to growth, which I respect. Instead of throwing open the doors and potentially crashing their servers, they're gradually expanding their user base through scheduled testing periods. While this means fewer people can stream right now, it's probably the smart play for long-term stability.

Some current limitations to note:

• No dedicated streaming dashboard yet
• Limited analytics
• Basic customization options

But here's what excites me about SharePlay's potential:

• Built-in monetization from day one
• High-quality video delivery
• Focus on community building
• Clean, intuitive interface

LiveSpace: More Than Just Streaming

Now let's talk about LiveSpace, which just entered open beta. What sets LiveSpace apart is their approach to being a complete creator platform rather than just a streaming service. Think of it as combining the best elements of Twitter and Twitch into one cohesive experience.

One of the most interesting things LiveSpace is doing right now is experimenting with hidden viewer counts. This might seem like a small change, but it's actually pretty significant. It forces viewers to choose streams based on content rather than popularity, which could help smaller creators grow more organically.

The platform offers:

• Built-in community feed (similar to Twitter)
• Browser-based streaming option
• Subscription system from day one
• Multiple streaming quality options
• VOD storage

They've also just announced something pretty bold: 1,000 creators will get 100% of their subscription revenue (minus processing fees) for an entire year. That's a serious commitment to growing their creator base.

The Future of Alternative Platforms

Here's the thing about these new platforms – they're not trying to be Twitch killers. Instead, they're carving out their own niches by focusing on community building and creator support. This is exactly what the streaming ecosystem needs.

Sure, there are challenges. Both platforms need to grow their viewer bases to be sustainable long-term. But I'm encouraged by their approaches. They're not just throwing money at big streamers or trying to compete on features alone. They're building thoughtful, creator-friendly platforms that address real pain points in the streaming community.

My Advice for Creators

If you're a content creator wondering whether to try these platforms, here's my take:

1. Don't feel pressured to abandon your main platform
2. Test these new platforms alongside your existing content
3. Focus on building genuine connections with viewers
4. Take advantage of unique features each platform offers
5. Provide feedback to help shape these platforms' development

Remember, the streaming landscape is constantly evolving. While Twitch and YouTube aren't going anywhere, having more options benefits everyone in the creator economy.

Want to Learn More?

If you're interested in exploring these platforms or other alternatives, I've got plenty of resources to help:

• Join our Discord community (link in bio)
• Check out my detailed platform reviews at 2tonwaffle.com
• Follow me on these platforms to see how I use them
• Subscribe to my newsletter for weekly updates

The Bottom Line

SharePlay and LiveSpace represent exciting new options for creators who want more control over their content and communities. While they're still developing, both platforms show promise in different ways. SharePlay offers a polished streaming experience with smart monetization, while LiveSpace provides a more complete creator platform with built-in community tools.

As always, I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Drop a comment below or join our Discord to continue the conversation. And hey, if you found this helpful, consider supporting the blog – it helps me keep bringing you information about these alternative platforms!

Until next time,

Josh