What are VTubers? The controversial class of streamers, explained

VTubers, internet creators who use digital avatars for live-streaming, have gained immense popularity on YouTube and Twitch since the late 2010s. They have expanded across platforms, with Twitch's most popular streamer being VTuber Ironmouse, who has 236,505 active subscribers. However, VTubers are currently facing issues as their YouTube and Twitch accounts are being shut down due to various rules violations, including the use of stolen payment information. In September, Ironmouse lost her YouTube channel, causing panic among VTubers, but it was later reinstated. Twitch also clarified that their Community Guidelines apply to VTubers, requiring avatars to cover genitalia, buttocks, hips, female-presented nipples, and underbust. This has forced VTubers to modify their avatars, often inspired by Japanese manga characters. Despite the challenges, VTubers are considering alternative platforms like Bilibili, Niconico, and Kick, although these platforms lack the audience discovery tools offered by YouTube and Twitch.