IRL streams remain TikTok’s most authentic and engaging format. Viewers love the sense of presence — walking through markets, sharing street food, chatting while you travel, or simply talking over coffee. These live sessions feel spontaneous and intimate.

In 2025-2026, IRL content is getting even more local. Creators are mixing micro-vlogging with livestreams — exploring small towns, local businesses, or regional festivals. The focus is storytelling and relatability, not perfection.

While Twitch and YouTube still rule the gaming world, TikTok Live is carving out its niche in mobile and casual gaming. The key advantage: discovery. TikTok’s algorithm pushes live content organically to interested audiences.

Trending categories for 2025-2026 include:

• 🎮 Mobile titles like Call of Duty: Mobile, Mobile Legends, and Genshin Impact
• 🎲 Retro or nostalgic games streamed via emulators
• 🧩 Puzzle & chill streams (cozy, ASMR-style gaming)
• 💬 Chat + Game hybrid — playing while answering comments or doing challenges

Gaming on TikTok doesn’t require complex setups — a good phone, external mic, and decent lighting are enough to start.

“Edu-tainment” — the mix of education and entertainment — is exploding. TikTok’s algorithm rewards value-driven content, and live teaching streams make followers return regularly.

Some fast-growing niches include:

• 📈 Financial literacy and digital marketing tips
• 🧠 Language learning (especially short “word of the day” formats)
• 🎨 Art, design, and DIY workshops
• 🍳 Cooking tutorials with real-time chat Q&A
• 💻 Tech explainers (AI, coding, or app tutorials)

By 2026, TikTok will roll out more creator tools for these verticals — making it easier to host classes, show slides, or display on-screen captions natively.

In the post-pandemic era, audiences crave authentic conversations about mental health, routines, and productivity. Lifestyle and wellness streams are booming because they’re real, relatable, and often low-effort.

• ☕ Morning routines / “Get ready with me” sessions
• 🧘 Live meditation or yoga
• 💬 Wellness talks or personal development discussions
• 🎧 Lo-fi music and “study with me” ambient lives

These formats thrive on regularity — viewers tune in daily or weekly as part of their routine.

E-commerce livestreaming is becoming a major revenue source for creators. With TikTok’s “Shop” integration now available in more regions, creators can sell directly from their streams.

The key is authenticity — people buy from people they trust, not polished sales pitches. Show how you use the product, share honest opinions, and respond to questions live.

Hot categories for 2025-2026:

• 💄 Beauty and skincare demos
• 👕 Fashion try-ons and styling tips
• 📱 Tech gadgets and accessories
• 🎁 Local handmade products or niche collectibles

TikTok’s new affiliate tools allow micro-creators to earn commissions without stocking products themselves — a major win for small streamers.

Artificial Intelligence isn’t just powering filters — it’s shaping livestreaming itself. Expect to see more AI-assisted co-hosts, auto-generated captions, and smart overlays.

Creators who experiment early with these tools — integrating overlays, animated assistants, or dynamic data — will stand out. Platforms like obscountdown.com already make this easier with AI-ready widgets for OBS and TikTok Live Studio.