Exploring Livestream Chat UX: Threads and Replies

Throughout Major League Baseball's regular season, a "game of the week" is live-streamed on YouTube, accompanied by a chat feature that often shifts unpredictably, leading to chaotic and sometimes boring interactions. This phenomenon is not unique to baseball, as many livestreams across different domains experience similar disruptions when chat conversations deviate from real-time events. The article explores how incorporating thread and reply features into livestream chats can enhance user experience by organizing conversations and minimizing clutter. It suggests that such features could be beneficial in keeping discussions on track and allowing for side conversations without overwhelming the main chat. The article discusses design solutions like creating threads that can expand or collapse, similar to platforms like Slack, and highlights the importance of giving hosts more control over chat interactions to maintain order and engagement. By implementing effective UX practices, livestream platforms can foster more meaningful and enjoyable interactions, rewarding active participants and ensuring consistent user experiences.