Pokimane responds to Linus’ “hurtful” comments about her over Twitch issues

Shay Robson

Popular streamer Imane ‘Pokimane’ Anys has hit back at the hurtful comments received from tech creator LinusTechTips, after she suggested different advertisement placements on Twitch to make them less intrusive.

In April, a Bloomberg report revealed that new changes are being considered to be introduced this summer that could cut 20% of revenue from the top streamers on Twitch.

Additionally, as the Amazon-owned streaming service continues to push for more profitability, they’ve continued to serve more and more advertisements over the years. Streamers and viewers alike have agreed that they’ve become a lot more intrusive.

Complaints that ads are ruining the live-viewing experience have become a lot more common in recent times, leading to the platform’s top creators suggesting changes. However, Pokimane’s idea wasn’t received well by fellow creator LinusTechTips.

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Twitch is the world’s biggest live streaming platform.

In an April 27 tweet, Pokimane suggested that Twitch should implement advertisements that don’t directly interfere with the content.

She added that she understands ads make the platform profitable but urged that adding them in the sidebar, picture in picture, or in an underlay would make the viewing experience much better.

However, while not naming her directly, LinusTechTips clearly hit out at Pokimane in his recent podcast for her “terrible take,” and mocked her in a female voice. He explained how the idea wouldn’t nearly make as much money, and hence it wouldn’t make any sense.

Understandably, Pokimane was upset by Linus’ “hurtful” comments and hit back. “Hey, just saw a clip where you discussed my tweet on your podcast,” Poki replied in a tweet. “I wanted to let you know that I felt the way you read my tweet in a mocking tone and referred to me as a ‘nameless creator’ albeit also replying to this tweet was odd and hurtful.”

Imane continued, breaking down Linus’s comments about the advertisements: “I understand that less aggressive forms of advertising aren’t as profitable, but that doesn’t mean the current system is the best one.

“In my opinion, further interrupting the essence of what makes streaming special, the live interaction is more detrimental to Twitch than the 50/50 split instead of 70/30.”

The tech star responded, apologizing and admitting that he was “frustrated” knowing how difficult it is to build a sustainable video platform from his first-hand experience. In an attempt to make up, Linus offered to help Pokimane with her newfound multi-platform freedom.

Advertisements are certainly getting more intrusive on the streaming site, but as already noted, they’re crucial to the site’s profitability.

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About The Author

Based in Newcastle Upon Tyne, UK, Shay Robson is a Journalist for Dexerto. Typically, you'll see Shay tackling the entertainment news, writing about your favorite Twitch streamers and influencers. But, as a passionate esports fan, you'll also catch him covering League of Legends and Valorant when he gets the chance. Contact: shay.robson@dexerto.com