Let streamers control the ad timing
Obviously we don't want Twitch to lose money and die out like other streaming platforms. The ads are a necessary evil. Let streamers control when the ads drop during the stream. Give them a requirement for how many ads have to be run per hour, or whatever the terms are, but let them determine when they run. Bathroom & food breaks would be ideal. Some streamers find the beginning of the stream critical, so running pre-roll is a bad idea for them. If the streamer doesn't run the required number of ads, hit them where it hurts - their wallets. That's a guaranteed way to make sure enough ads are run to hit revenue targets, and the streamers can benefit from it.
Also, increase the variety of the ad pool. Nothing drives viewers crazier than seeing the same stupid ad every single time an ad rolls.
Consider a minimum viewer count/average for ad requirements. If a streamer only averages 1 viewer, they shouldn't be required to run those ads. That's unfairly squashing the competition. Wait until they get to a higher number, like 500 viewers on average (for example). Then require the ads for them.
Rook_III
shared this idea
Hey there, in September 2021 we announced the Ads Manager, allowing streamers to set the ad density and schedule for ads on their channel. We are always looking to make improvements. If you have any feedback for the Ads Manager, please head over to the Ads Manager forum: https://twitch.uservoice.com/forums/310237-ads?category_id=410298
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Darthgouf88
commented
Disable ads when you first view a stream.
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MochiChewy
commented
Having ads make it so hard for small time streamers to grow. If Twitch was able to disable the ad upon first click and then wait until a certain duration before posting an ad then that would help the small time streamers.
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watchmenaynayonaise
commented
Unlike TV where shows are cut and timed specifically to include ads at certain times, the current ad implementation is way too abrupt and often cuts you off from something potentially exciting on stream. Let the creators decide when they want ads to roll.
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BalthamousReturns
commented
Allowing streamers to disable ads, specifically stream pre rolls, when you start watching their stream would be a valuable tool.
When people are greated with ads as their first experience in a stream they are more inclined to turn of the stream or switch to another channel.
This has the effect of damaging smaller streamers as that initial few viewers can be crucial to maintaining an audience and being seen in the litany of other streams on the explore pages for each category.