Recently, we have been discussing the many ways Facebook has updated their platforms to help users stay connected while physically distancing. Last week, we introduced Messenger Rooms, Facebook’s response to the recent boom in video calling. This week, our focus shifts to another fantastic update that lets you go “Live With” friends.
Continuing A Conversation
Since April 2016, Facebook has enabled users to live broadcast videos to friends directly from their mobile devices. Shortly after launching the service, Facebook added the “Live With” feature, which enabled users to host a live conversation about a hot topic, and invite friends to the stream to co-host from their own device.
However, in November 2019, Facebook disabled its option to add friends to live video broadcasts, stating, “It’s important that we prioritize and focus on experiences that drive the most value for the community.” This left social media communities unable to broadcast co-hosted live shows from separate devices, meaning if you wanted to host an interview, you needed to be in the same room (and able to fit on the same vertical screen) or use a third-party application like StreamYard or BeLive.
With the coronavirus pandemic bringing the world to a halt, Facebook has brought back “Live With” to not only its own platform, but to Instagram as well. In April 2020, Facebook announced, “With more people turning to live video to connect with their community during COVID-19, we’re actively working on ways to enhance the live experience on Facebook.”
Continuing To Connect
The “Live With” feature enables the host to add a co-host, or multiple co-hosts, at any time during a single broadcast. After going live, simply tap the “Live With” icon at the bottom of the screen, and then add co-hosts from your friends list. As an added bonus, the “Live With” feature is also available on Instagram, and will notify your co-host that they’ve been added to the live broadcast.
Not just for personal social media use, “Live With” can also be a powerful tool for digital marketing during this time of physical distancing. Interviews can be conducted live on-air from different devices and locations, discussions and demonstrations can be hosted in virtual learning environments, and more. The usages are only limited to your imagination.
Going live on Facebook and Instagram enables both large and small businesses to be transparent and to address their audiences directly. By adding a co-host, businesses can increase engagement with their social media community and address digital marketing questions, among other uses.
For help with your social media marketing needs, contact the pros at Aliya Hammond Consulting, and be sure to join us next week as we explore AI 360-degree backgrounds and mood lighting.
You’ve probably realized by now that Social Media is no longer an option. In fact, it is a vital and highly successful tool for building a business. Aliya Hammond Consulting is an online Digital Marketing, Training, and Consulting Company headquartered in the greater Philadelphia area. We specialize in Social Media Management and Marketing, Social Media Training, Blog Writing, and Graphic Design Services for small and large businesses, entrepreneurs, and non-profit organizations. If you are looking to improve or increase your online presence, you can rest assured you are in good hands with us. Contact Aliya Hammond Consulting today to find out how we can help your business grow!
