Twitch’s new Dual Format feature lets streamers broadcast horizontally and vertically at the same time
Twitch is launching a new dual-format streaming feature next month that enables content creators to broadcast simultaneously in both horizontal and vertical video formats. Announced at TwitchCon Europe 2026, the feature optimizes viewing experiences across different devices and screen orientations.
Under the new system, desktop viewers receive the traditional horizontal stream format, while mobile users automatically see a full-screen vertical version of the same broadcast. This addresses the growing trend of mobile-first content consumption, where vertical video has become the preferred viewing format for many users.
The feature leverages Twitch’s Enhanced Broadcasting technology, which uses client-side encoding to deliver multiple stream variants optimized for different viewing contexts. According to Twitch, the technology underwent beta testing that garnered positive feedback from creators. The company noted it made “noticeable performance improvements” to the system during this period.
This development reflects broader shifts in streaming and video consumption, as platforms increasingly accommodate both traditional desktop viewers and growing mobile audiences. By allowing streamers to reach both audiences simultaneously without requiring separate streams or additional effort, Twitch lowers barriers to multi-platform streaming while improving viewer experience across devices.