TikTok unveils interactive gifting feature to boost live stream engagement

The TikTok app. (Photo: File/REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration)

By Margaret Wanjiru
Thursday, August 21, 2025

Another way is when a viewer sends a designated gift, it can instantly activate changes such as altering the room’s lighting, playing sound effects, or displaying unique visual overlays.

TikTok has launched a new feature that allows creators to enhance viewer engagement by linking virtual gifts to custom actions or overlays during their live streams.

More To Read

This innovation enables a more dynamic and immersive experience for both creators and their audiences.

With the update, creators can assign specific virtual gifts the power to trigger interactive effects in real-time.

According to app researcher Jonah Manzano, some live streamers have access to “Viewer Wishes,” which enables them to set up performative responses that they will undertake on streams for specific donations.

So if a viewer sends a rose donation, the streamer in this example would say “HI” on stream.

You can set up to six actions that you will perform on request, with a range of additional controls to manage such requests during live sessions.

You can also choose from a range of templated actions if you are not sure what to offer in return for specific gifts.

TikTok has launched a new feature that allows creators to enhance viewer engagement by linking virtual gifts to custom actions or overlays during their live streams. (Social Media Today)

Another way is when a viewer sends a designated gift, it can instantly activate changes such as altering the room’s lighting, playing sound effects, or displaying unique visual overlays.

This feature turns the act of gifting into an interactive event, deepening audience participation and adding a fresh layer of entertainment.

By giving creators the ability to customise how gifts influence their live content, TikTok empowers them to create more personalised and engaging shows (live), potentially increasing gift revenues and viewer retention.

Currently, the feature is being rolled out gradually to select creators and is expected to expand to a wider user base in the coming months.

TikTok has not specified all the types of actions or overlays available, but emphasised the versatility for creators to tailor experiences that fit their content style.