YouTube has introduced a brand-new feature called ‘Gifts’ for users in India.
The feature allows viewers to support their favorite creators by sending animated virtual gifts during vertical live streams.
With this launch, YouTube is adding another way for creators to earn money, alongside existing features like Channel Memberships, Super Chat, Super Stickers, and Super Thanks.
How YouTube Gifts Work
When viewers watch a creator’s vertical live stream, they can send animated gifts that appear as colorful graphics on the screen.
To send these gifts, users must first buy Jewels, YouTube’s virtual currency.
When a gift is sent, the creator receives Rubies, which represent the earnings from that gift.
Only the creator can see the amount of Rubies earned, while viewers simply see the animated gift appear during the live stream.
A New Way for Creators to Earn More
YouTube believes the new Gifts feature will help creators increase their income while giving fans another fun way to show their appreciation.
According to YouTube, India’s strong fan culture has played a big role in creator growth.
The company says that 92% of Indian creators feel YouTube has helped them build a loyal community.
The platform also revealed that the number of Indian YouTube channels earning seven-figure incomes has been growing by more than 20% every year.
Popular gaming creator Naman Mathur (Mortal) also welcomed the new feature.
He said that support from fans through features like Gifts, Super Chat, and memberships not only boosts earnings but also encourages creators to stream for longer periods.
India-Themed Gifts Added
To make the feature more exciting for Indian users, YouTube has introduced several India-inspired animated gifts.
These include Vada Pav, Chai Toast, Pani Puri, Badhai Ho, Kem Cho, Matcha, and All Is Well.
YouTube is expected to add more gifts based on festivals, seasons, and special occasions in the future.
How Creators Can Enable the Feature
Creators who are eligible for YouTube Gifts can turn on the feature through YouTube Studio.
They need to visit the Earn Hub, accept the new Virtual Items module, and the Gifts feature will automatically become available during their vertical live streams.
