Instagram has quietly rolled out a new restriction that stops users with fewer than 1,000 followers from going live. According to an update on the platform’s Help Centre, only public accounts with at least 1,000 followers can now start a Live Broadcast. This new limit is already in effect in India, and it applies to users of both Android and iPhone devices. The social media platform hasn’t explained the reason behind the change.
New Rule Affects Smaller Creators and Businesses
This new update by Instagram could make it harder for small content creators, influencers, and local businesses to interact directly with their followers. Earlier, creators and businesses had an easier way to connect with their audiences in real-time by going live. This helped them promote products as well. But now, users who do not meet the follower count criteria are being restricted to use this feature, potentially affecting their reach and growth.
Earlier, many users with fewer followers built their presence by regularly interacting with their audience through live sessions. With this option now taken away, smaller creators might struggle to grow their communities.
No Official Reason From Instagram Yet
As of now, Instagram – which is owned by Meta – has not given any official reason for imposing this limit. The platform’s head, Adam Mosseri, has also not commented on this change. This new restriction could be the company’s way of tightening control over live interactions, possibly for safety and moderation.
Not A First For Instagram
This isn’t Instagram’s first restriction on the Live feature. The company had earlier disabled it by default for Teen Accounts. Teenagers over 16 can enable it manually, but those younger require guardian or parental permission. This was aimed at improving online safety for younger users.
Now, with the new follower limit, Instagram is drawing a clearer line between large creators and everyday users.
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