Instagram Limits Live Broadcasts: Live Feature Only for 1,000+ Followers
Instagram has changed its rules for live videos. Now, you need at least 1,000 followers on your account to go live. This change, which is already active for users on both Android and iPhone devices, means that many smaller creators, individuals, and businesses will no longer be able to use the feature to connect with their audience in real-time. The new policy has been confirmed in the platform’s Help Center, though Instagram has not yet provided a detailed public statement on the reasoning behind the decision.
This new restriction is expected to create challenges for a wide range of users who have relied on live videos as a key tool for growth. Previously, new content creators and small businesses used live streams to engage with their followers directly, showcase products, and build a community from the ground up. With this door now closed to them, these creators may find it harder to get noticed and grow their accounts organically, as one of their most effective engagement tools has been taken away.
The update brings Instagram’s live streaming policy more in line with its competitor, TikTok, which also has a 1,000-follower requirement to go live. While some see this as a move to improve the quality of live content and reduce the number of streams with low viewership, it has left many smaller users feeling frustrated. The decision is being viewed by some as a step toward making the platform more focused on established influencers and brands rather than everyday users and those who are just starting.
This is not the first time Instagram has changed its rules around live streaming. The platform had already set restrictions for teen accounts, where users under 16 have the feature disabled by default for safety reasons. While those changes were aimed at protecting younger users, this latest update seems to be a different kind of move, one that puts more focus on follower numbers. It forces small creators to look for new ways to build their communities and interact with their audience without the help of live video.
