Some users will soon be able to stream live video on Facebook when the social network giant introduces this brand new service. The service has been trialled with a number of high-profile users and celebrities over the past few months.
Mobile matters
The idea isn’t new, as Twitter-owned Periscope and Meerkat have already proved to be extremely popular, but the size of Facebook’s user base means that the new development is likely to be used by a far greater number of people.
Live streaming via mobile phones is one of 2015’s biggest technology trends; however, at least initially, Facebook’s live video feature will only be available to individuals in the US and will be limited to those with iPhones.
The world’s biggest social network has stated that “over time, the company plans to bring it to all users” but as yet has not tied itself down to any particular timed roll-out.
Introducing the service
The service was introduced in a blogpost where Facebook stated: “Live lets you show the people you care about what you’re seeing in real time – whether visiting a new place, cooking your favourite recipe or just want to share some thoughts.”
The number of live viewers, the names of friends who are watching and comments added in real time as they are written will all be displayed on the stream. The videos will also be saved on a user’s timeline until they want them deleted.
Photo collages
Another related update from Facebook affects the way that photo collages can be shared, giving users the chance to mix photos and videos together.
An analyst with research firm Enders, Ian Maude, commented on the likely impact of the new service: “Facebook has a vast audience to promote services to so there is nothing stopping it from becoming a significant player in video streaming,” he explained.
Maude said that Britain was now “a nation of sharers” in common with many other countries around the world.
