YouTube is expanding its test of Watch With, which lets creators share live reactions alongside livestreams in the app.
First announced in 2024, Watch With lets creators provide live commentary and real-time reactions on livestreams and events. YouTube began experimenting with the feature as a complement to its NFL coverage.
YouTube has been gradually expanding access to the option, and it’s now opening up Watch With to more creators.
As explained by YouTube: “If you're in the experiment group, you will see a ‘React live’ button in the Share panel when viewing eligible streams on your mobile device. Tapping this button lets you broadcast your own reaction alongside the original content. Your phone camera will automatically lock in a horizontal orientation, and you can’t turn your camera off for the reaction.”
Creators using the Watch With function will be able to earn revenue normally from the reactions posted within their stream. They’ll also share viewing metrics with the original broadcaster in the app.
“Viewers can tune in from any device, and will see both your camera view and the source video combined as a vertical stream,” YouTube said.
It’s the latest in YouTube’s expanding push to drive more live content engagement. YouTube is also experimenting with livestream leaderboards to gamify engagement and livestream stations, which enable channels to create a 24/7 stream of content. The platform also continues to expand access to livestream gifts.
The emphasis on live content could help YouTube drive more viewer engagement and boost community growth efforts for creators.
In September 2025, YouTube reported that, on average, more than 30% of daily logged-in YouTube viewers watched live content in the app.
