Instagram, one of the most used social platforms in the world, has introduced a significant change to its live streaming system. Now, To be able to broadcast live on Instagram, you must have a public account and a minimum of 1.000 followers.This rule adjustment represents a significant shift for those accustomed to connecting with their audiences in real time, as it restricts this option for users with smaller communities.
Until very recently, any Instagram user could access the live video feature simply by opening the app, regardless of their follower count. The decision by Meta, the owner of the social network, limits access to live broadcasts and equates the requirements to those of TikTok., generating debate among both content creators and the general public, especially those who saw this tool as a means of growth and interaction.
New requirements for live streaming on Instagram
With the change in the conditions of use, Instagram live broadcasts are reserved exclusively for public accounts with 1.000 or more followers.Profiles that do not meet this threshold will be greeted with an on-screen warning when attempting to start a broadcast informing them that they are unable to access the feature under the new criteria.
Meta has not made a formal public explanation for this change—no blog announcements or statements to the media—which has generated some uncertainty in the community. However, there is speculation that it may be due to the need to reduce the misuse of live streams, prevent inappropriate content from newly created accounts, and optimize resources given a volume of broadcasts that, in many cases, barely reaches a few viewers.
Another possible reason is the intention to improve the perception of quality and security on the platform, limiting the ability to broadcast live only to those who have already established a significant follower baseThe new policy, while intended to improve the audience experience, makes it especially difficult for emerging creators who want to gain exposure through streaming.
What alternatives does Instagram offer to affected users?
For those who do not reach the required threshold of followers, Instagram suggests using private video calls as an option for communicating in real time. Although this alternative allows for direct interaction, It lacks the visibility and growth potential that public live shows provide.You can learn more about how to improve your Instagram presence in our dedicated section. How to schedule messages on Instagram.
The new limit is already integrated into the warning messages and on the official help page, confirming that the policy affects all users who do not meet the minimum requirements. This measure, frequently compared to TikTok's, leaves YouTube as one of the few platforms that maintains a much lower threshold (50 followers) for accessing live streams. To expand your knowledge of the different platforms, visit our section Best alternatives to Google Chrome on Android.
Furthermore, this tightening of regulations reflects a growing trend in the digital sector: Major platforms seek to reserve key tools for those who have demonstrated active engagement and an established community., thus promoting the quality and control of live content.
Tips for reaching 1.000 followers and activating live broadcasts
Given the new regulations, many users are wondering how to achieve the new minimum number of followers to activate live broadcasts. Instagram recommends focusing on creating original, high-quality content., using engaging formats like reels, leveraging popular audio clips, and taking care with the visual presentation. You can also check out our guide on how to make a video on google photos.
To optimize reach, the platform advises Avoid practices such as clickbait or reusing videos from other networks with watermarks.Additionally, genuinely engaging with your audience, responding to comments within the first few days of posting, and analyzing post statistics are key to understanding what works best.
It is also suggested that videos intended to capture the attention of new followers do not exceed 90 seconds, so they're agile, concise, and maintain interest from the start. Humor, approachability, and participation through questions or comments often boost virality and profile growth. Learn more about how to improve your interactions in our section. How to enable memory extension on Android.
We must not forget the importance of announce live performances in advance When they're enabled, giving viewers the opportunity to schedule their attendance. During the broadcast, naturalness and active audience response help build a loyal and engaged community. You can also learn how to facilitate your communication with followers.
The recent change in Instagram's rules has created an additional barrier for those trying to grow from scratch, but it can also be seen as an incentive to professionalize content and strengthen relationships with followers. Instagram Live broadcasts, now more exclusive, will continue to be one of the most powerful ways to build loyalty and connect with an engaged audience, as long as the platform's new criteria are met.
