Twitch, the Amazon-owned streaming giant, is taking a big step into Web3 through a new partnership with $ZAP, a payment processor specializing in blockchain integrations. The move positions Twitch at the intersection of live entertainment and crypto economies, a space that is rapidly gaining traction across the industry.
Rival platforms have already been experimenting with crypto features. Pump.fun, the viral memecoin launchpad, recently introduced its own livestreaming functionality, while Kick partnered with Bonk.fun to align its content ecosystem with crypto communities. These developments highlight a broader convergence between streaming and Web3.
Why $Zap matters for Twitch
For Twitch, the partnership with $ZAP signals a clear intent to modernize its digital economy. $ZAP provides a suite of tools that allow platforms to integrate crypto payments seamlessly, covering tipping, subscriptions, digital assets, and on-chain fan engagement. While Twitch has long operated its own virtual tipping currency, “bits”, the integration of $ZAP opens the door to blockchain-enabled features that extend far beyond its existing ecosystem.
Analysts suggest the collaboration could bring major opportunities for both streamers and audiences. On one hand, creators stand to benefit from faster payouts, global accessibility, and new monetization models. On the other, audiences gain flexibility in how they support and engage with streamers, whether through direct payments, tokenized perks, or community‑driven experiences.
Positioned for a new frontier
With this move, Twitch signals that it is no longer simply exploring crypto integration, it is actively building with it. The partnership with $ZAP marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of streaming, one that could redefine how value flows between platforms, creators, and their communities.
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