Instagram is implementing a new policy requiring users to have at least 1,000 followers before they can access live streaming capabilities. The change, which began rolling out in recent weeks, brings Instagram’s requirements in line with those of TikTok, which maintains the same 1,000-follower threshold across major markets including the U.S. and Europe.

According to Social Media Today, users below this threshold have reported receiving notifications about the change in their feeds. Those affected will need to turn to video calls as an alternative for real-time communication with their audience.

While Meta has not provided an official explanation for the change, there are several potential factors. Live streaming requires significant server resources, especially for broadcasts with limited viewership. The threshold may also help reduce instances of newly created accounts being used to stream inappropriate content before moderation can intervene.

Comparison with Other Platforms

The 1,000-follower requirement potentially serves as a quality filter, ensuring that only creators with established audiences can broadcast live. This approach mirrors TikTok’s strategy of using follower counts to maintain content standards and reduce spam.

YouTube maintains a lower barrier to entry, requiring only 50 subscribers for live streaming eligibility. However, YouTube supplements this with additional criteria, including a minimum age requirement of 16 years—a restriction Instagram also implemented in April.

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