Company Directory - Twitch Interactive, Inc.
Company Details - Twitch Interactive, Inc.
Twitch Interactive, Inc.
WebsiteSan Francisco, United States
Twitch is a live streaming platform primarily used for video game streaming, as well as for music broadcasts and creative content. It offers an interactive experience for viewers and a community space for content creators.
CCI Score
CCI Score: Twitch Interactive, Inc.
-7.16
Latest Event
How Twitch is Shaping the Future of Political Conversations
Twitch is being recognized as a digital arena for political dialogue, largely empowering younger audiences through live and interactive political communication. The platform is fostering an environment that challenges traditional media gatekeepers and democratizes political discourse.
Take Action
So what can you do? It's time to make tough choices. Where will you cast your vote?
- Shop Alternatives
SEE ALL - Use Your Voice
OTHER TOOLS - Investigate
- Share the Score
SUPPORT CCI
COLLABORATOR
Twitch Interactive, Inc. is currently rated as a Collaborator.
Latest Events
- DEC102024
Twitch is being recognized as a digital arena for political dialogue, largely empowering younger audiences through live and interactive political communication. The platform is fostering an environment that challenges traditional media gatekeepers and democratizes political discourse.
+70
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Twitch has evolved into an essential hub for real-time political conversations that engage its predominantly young audience. The platform’s interactive features facilitate direct community engagement, enhancing democratic debate and bypassing traditional media controls. This active political participation is a positive force in resisting authoritarian narratives by broadening political dialogue.
+65
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The technological infrastructure of Twitch enables a novel form of political engagement by allowing live interactions and community-driven discussions. Its innovative platform design emphasizes real-time feedback and connectivity, which supports a new mode of indirect political influence that counters traditional media monopolies.
- DEC052024
Twitch faces intense scrutiny as its inconsistent content moderation has allowed hate speech and politically charged content to proliferate on its platform, resulting in advertiser pullouts and public criticism.
-30
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Twitch has been heavily criticized for its handling of political and hate-related content. Its selective enforcement and controversial content moderation practices, evident during events like TwitchCon panels, have raised concerns about the company inadvertently facilitating extremist discourse and divisive political behavior.
-15
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
The controversy has exposed weaknesses in Twitch's business practices and ethical responsibility. Major advertisers like JPMorgan Chase and Chevron withdrawing support illuminate a failure in maintaining ethical standards and protecting communities from hate speech, reflecting poorly on their business ethics.
-30
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
As a technology platform, Twitch’s failure to adequately police hate speech and extremist content has significant implications. The platform’s technological and service impact is undermined by its inconsistent enforcement of community guidelines, facilitating the spread of harmful political and extremist narratives.
-10
Economic and Structural Influence
March 25
Economic pressures are evident as key advertisers pull their support in response to the controversies. This economic feedback loop underscores the structural influence and accountability mechanisms in play, although the direct impact on Twitch’s overall economic and structural influence is perceived as moderate.
- NOV042024
Twitch has introduced a new label for streams covering political and sensitive topics. The policy, set just ahead of the US election, is intended to give advertisers clarity on the content next to which their ads appear. Critics, however, warn that the ambiguous definitions and potential for arbitrary enforcement may chill political dialogue and facilitate indirect censorship, lending itself to a broader trend of corporate complicity in controlling public discourse.
-40
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Under the Public and Political Behavior category, Twitch's new labeling policy is problematic. By potentially suppressing and arbitrarily categorizing political content, the policy may be used to marginalize dissenting voices and political discussion, thereby contributing to an environment that favors authoritarian control over public discourse.
-30
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
Within the Technology and Services Impact category, the new moderation policy reflects how Twitch leverages its platform technology to label content. The broad and ambiguous criteria not only risk stifling free expression, but may also be co-opted to serve corporate interests, thereby indirectly supporting frameworks that can lead to authoritarian censorship of dissenting political and social views.
- NOV012024
In response to backlash over controversial content and rising antisemitism, Twitch has rolled out a new feature that allows users to hide political and "sensitive social issues" streams. The change marks a strategic adjustment in how the platform moderates politically charged content, aiming to offer advertisers greater context and protect vulnerable communities from hate and harassment.
+20
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Under the category of Public and Political Behavior, Twitch’s decision to allow users to hide political content is a move aimed at mitigating the spread of hate and extremist rhetoric. The CEO’s statement underscoring a commitment against hate and harassment, along with the implementation of a clear content classification label, demonstrates an effort to adjust the platform's public political stance. While this approach supports vulnerable communities, it also may placate advertising partners rather than purely promoting democratic discourse.
Twitch adds feature to let users hide political and “sensitive” streams
+20
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
Within the Technology and Services Impact category, the introduction of content classification labels and filtering mechanisms is a significant step. This innovation not only empowers users to tailor their viewing experience but also increases transparency and responsibility in how politically charged content is managed on the platform. Although the move is largely positive by offering more control, it also raises concerns regarding potential echo chambers and the impact on political discourse.
Twitch adds feature to let users hide political and “sensitive” streams
- NOV012024
Twitch has implemented new content classification guidelines requiring warning labels for streams that discuss politics and sensitive social issues. While intended to curb hate and harassment, critics argue that the vague criteria may suppress legitimate political discourse and marginalize marginalized voices, raising concerns over potential censorship.
-30
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Twitch’s new policy, which mandates warning labels for political and sensitive social content, appears to be a reactionary measure to past controversies rather than a robust stand against hate. The vague guidelines risk stifling important discussions and political dissent, potentially marginalizing voices that are essential to democratic debate.
-20
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The enforcement of these guidelines via Twitch's technology platform introduces automated content moderation that could lead to unintentional censorship. This technical implementation disproportionately affects legitimate expression and may silence the political and social debates crucial to challenging authoritarian tendencies.
- OCT302024
Twitch's live streaming platform is being increasingly adopted by political figures as a means of engaging with younger, tech-savvy voters. By hosting political outreach events that blend entertainment, gaming, and political dialogue, Twitch is playing a role in reshaping electoral campaigning and supporting democratic participation.
+60
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Under the 'Public and Political Behavior' category, Twitch is highlighted for enabling direct political engagement. The platform is used by a range of political figures, from progressive leaders like AOC and Bernie Sanders to others, fostering a space where democratic conversation flourishes. This engagement helps counter traditional authoritarian media narratives and supports participation among younger voters.
+40
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
Focusing on 'Technology and Services Impact', Twitch’s live streaming technology offers an interactive medium that enables real-time engagement between political figures and the electorate. This innovative approach to digital communication provides an alternative to conventional media channels, thereby supporting democratic discourse and participation.
- SEP302024
The FTC report investigating streaming and social media companies exposes widespread commercial surveillance and invasive data practices. With Amazon (which owns Twitch) included among the studied companies, Twitch is indirectly implicated for its role in facilitating data monetization strategies that compromise consumer privacy and democratic norms.
-60
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
The FTC report criticizes data exploitation and commercial surveillance practices by streaming services. As Twitch is owned by Amazon, it is implicated in business practices that prioritize monetization of user data over ethical responsibility and consumer privacy.
-70
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The report raises significant concerns over the technological infrastructure used by streaming platforms, including the use of surveillance tools and algorithms that collect and exploit personal data. Twitch, as part of this ecosystem, shares in these practices that undermine consumer protections and enable authoritarian forms of data control.
- SEP202024
The FTC report reveals that Twitch, along with other major social media and streaming services, engages in extensive user surveillance to monetize personal data while failing to protect vulnerable users, including children and teens.
- SEP182024
The FTC staff report released on September 18, 2024, criticized major social media and video streaming companies, including Twitch (owned by Amazon), for engaging in vast surveillance of users, inadequate privacy controls, and insufficient safeguards for children and teens. The report points to the systemic collection and monetization of personal data and raises concerns about the ethical responsibilities of these platforms.
-60
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
Twitch, as part of Amazon's portfolio, is implicated in the FTC report highlighting lax privacy and data protection practices. The company's role in the collection and retention of user data—especially given the monetization strategy based on invasive tracking and targeted advertising—exemplifies business practices that undermine ethical responsibility. This has serious implications for user privacy and contributes to a larger ecosystem of corporate practices enabling authoritarian surveillance.
-70
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The report underscores extensive use of invasive tracking technologies and data monetization strategies that compromise user privacy. As Twitch is part of the ecosystem criticized for deploying these measures, it contributes to a broader technological impact that facilitates mass surveillance and undermines digital rights—practices that align with an authoritarian model of control over personal data.
- APR182023
An assessment by BSR evaluating how Twitch's service policies, partnerships, and technology practices impact human rights, including worker treatment, freedom of expression, and privacy.
-25
Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices
March 25
The human rights impact assessment raises concerns about Twitch's policies and partnerships, indicating potential shortcomings in protecting labor rights and ensuring robust human rights practices. The findings highlight issues that align with the category of Labor Relations and Human Rights Practices, suggesting that the company could be indirectly contributing to broader systemic issues if improvements are not made.
-10
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The assessment touches on the technological design and content moderation practices of Twitch, suggesting that these elements may inadvertently affect freedom of expression and privacy. This aligns with concerns in the Technology and Services Impact category, indicating that while the platform provides valuable services, it also has areas that could be improved to avoid the risk of enabling repressive trends.
- APR182023
A report published by BSR on April 18, 2023, evaluates Twitch's commitment to human rights and ethical practices with a focus on improving labor conditions, privacy, freedom of expression, and overall supply chain ethics. The assessment highlights both positive strides and areas in need of further improvement to ensure the platform does not inadvertently support authoritarian agendas.
+70
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
The BSR human rights assessment indicates that Twitch has undertaken significant efforts to evaluate and address human rights issues within its operations, including labor practices, ethical business operations, and supply chain improvements. These actions demonstrate a commitment to counteracting oppressive practices and aligning business ethics against authoritarian practices.
+60
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The assessment illustrates that Twitch, as a leading digital platform, is at the intersection of technology and human rights. The report outlines the need for continual improvements in areas such as privacy, freedom of expression, and ethical use of technology, which are critical when combating the use of digital platforms for authoritarian purposes.
- APR112023
Twitch's decision to eliminate 15% of its staff responsible for moderating abusive and illegal behavior, along with disbanding its AI ethics monitoring team, has raised serious concerns among ex-workers. These moves signal a troubling shift in the company's prioritization of ethical business practices and technological oversight, potentially compromising platform safety and accountability.
-50
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
Twitch's large-scale layoffs, particularly targeting the team tasked with monitoring abusive behavior and upholding AI ethics, reveal a concerning neglect of worker safety and ethical responsibilities. This decision undermines the company's accountability and raises red flags regarding its commitment to responsible business practices.
-40
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The disbandment of Twitch’s AI ethics team raises significant worries about the company’s oversight of emerging technologies. Without sufficient checks on AI-driven decisions, there is a risk of unchecked algorithmic practices that may inadvertently foster abusive or extremist content, contributing to broader societal harm.
Twitch Cuts in Safety, AI Ethics Raise Concerns Among Ex-Workers
- APR112023
Job cuts affecting Twitch’s safety and AI ethics teams have sparked concerns among ex-employees regarding the company’s commitment to ethical labor practices and responsible tech oversight. The layoffs, reportedly eliminating about 15% of staff dedicated to content moderation and a newly formed AI ethics team, raise questions about prioritizing cost-savings over safeguarding both workers and platform users.
-40
Business Practices and Ethical Responsibility
March 25
Twitch’s decision to cut approximately 15% of its workforce—including teams responsible for monitoring abusive behavior—demonstrates a concerning disregard for worker rights and ethical responsibility. This move undermines the company's duty to maintain safe working conditions and ensure proper oversight on its platform.
Twitch Cuts in Safety, AI Ethics Raise Concerns Among Ex-Workers
-35
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
The closure of the newly established team responsible for monitoring the ethics of Twitch’s AI initiatives compromises the platform’s ability to manage and mitigate harmful or abusive content effectively. This reduction in tech oversight raises significant concerns about the ethical implications of Twitch’s technology services and its potential long-term impact on public discourse.
Twitch Cuts in Safety, AI Ethics Raise Concerns Among Ex-Workers
- MAY012022
An in‐depth evaluation of Twitch’s human rights policies and practices related to content governance, privacy, and moderation. The assessment outlines both strengths and notable areas for improvement, recommending measures to better safeguard against harms that could indirectly facilitate extremist or authoritarian narratives.
- OCT202020
Twitch enabled Congresswoman AOC to host a groundbreaking political stream on October 20, 2020, which engaged hundreds of thousands of viewers and signaled a transformative moment in political outreach by leveraging digital platforms to foster direct, interactive democratic engagement.
+80
Public and Political Behavior
March 25
Twitch provided a platform that enabled a direct connection between a progressive political figure and her constituents, facilitating unprecedented democratic engagement. By hosting interactive streams, Twitch contributed positively to public political behavior and helped break down traditional barriers between politicians and voters.
+70
Technology and Services Impact
March 25
Twitch's digital infrastructure and interactive streaming technology have played a significant role in modernizing political engagement. The platform’s support for live, unfiltered discourse and community interaction bolsters democratic accountability, helping to counter traditional authoritarian communication channels.
Alternatives
Menlo Park, United States
-48.53
Corporation
1.74
Paoli, United States
67.49
New York, United States
-8.69
New York, United States
-9.27
Culver City, United States
-16.68
San Francisco, United States
-26.10
Mountain View, United States
-31.30
Seattle, United States
-33.62
Seattle, United States
-35.16
Industries
- 518210
- Computing Infrastructure Providers, Data Processing, Web Hosting, and Related Services
- 711510
- Independent Artists, Writers, and Performers
- 511210
- Software Publishers