Hitbox and Azubu launch Smashcast, new streaming competitor to Twitch
Former livestream platforms Hitbox and Azubu have launched Smashcast, a new streaming competitor that describes itself as the “largest independent esports broadcaster outside Asia.”
The service is now live at www.smashcast.tv. It has also launched on the App Store and Google Play as a free app. As of today, the Hitbox.tv and Azubu.tv domains will redirect to Smashcast.
Smashcast features a unique component called the Hype-O-Meter which enables viewers to cheer for their streamer via the use of emojis. Smashcast also supports 4K and 360 VR streaming.
“We’re excited to announce the new company name and brand resulting from the merger of Hitbox and Azubu,” said CEO of Smashcast Mike McGarvey. “Smashcast will launch with a new hype feature for viewer engagement which represents just the first step in our long-term vision to create the best broadcaster-to-viewer experience in the world of esports and competitive gaming.”
Smashcast has also launched a 4K-ready studio in Vienna, Austria. According to the press release, the studio “represents a core component of the company’s forward-looking strategy to more fully integrate into the worlds of esports and competitive gaming and to ensure that not only its technology is first-rate but that the content streaming on the service is of the highest quality possible.”
In addition to the established advertising, subscription, and donation models, Smashcast is also looking into new products in affiliate marketing, interactive sponsor-based advertising, virtual goods sales, sponsorships and in-game betting.
