What you need to know
- Google has announced a new feature that's designed to give creators a way to engage with audiences while also getting paid.
- Viewers can buy Super Thanks in $2, $5, $10, and $50 denominations.
YouTube has announced a new feature that is designed to give viewers a way to say thanks for the content they're watching — while also helping creators monetize their channels.
Super Thanks, as YouTube has dubbed them, come in $2, $5, $10, and $50 denominations and can be bought directly below a video while viewers are watching. Think of it as a tip jar of sorts, but with an element that allows creators to respond as well.
Fans watching YouTube videos can now purchase Super Thanks to express their gratitude and show support. They will see an animated GIF and, as an added bonus, get a distinct, colorful comment to highlight their purchase, which creators can respond to. Super Thanks is currently available at four price points between $2 and $50 (or local currency equivalent). Just like Super Chat and Super Stickers, Super Thanks does double duty for creators: keeping their connections with (super) fans meaningful, while also giving them a new way to make money.
There's no downside here — viewers get to help support the content they enjoy and creators get to earn a little more money for their work. YouTube says that the new expansion will see thousands of creators now gain the ability to offer Super Thanks, although it isn't yet available for all. YouTube says creators can check if they have access right now, too.
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