Just days ago, Instagram finally started letting U.S. users broadcast live on their app. Now, Twitter has taken a similar path. Streaming live video on the social media app is now easier than ever, as starting Wednesday, users will be able to broadcast live video straight from Twitter without having to use Periscope. Twitter is promoting the new feature this morning using the #GoLive hashtag.
In a blog post, Twitter explains:
Once you start broadcasting live from the app, anyone on Twitter or Periscope can watch. You can also comment on live videos as well as send supportive "hearts" by tapping on your screen.
If you're not seeing the feature yet, don't worry. The update for both iOS and Android will be rolling out over the next few days.
Twitter promotes itself as the place to "see what's happening right now," and obviously, video is a great way to do that. Live video can be great for friendly messages, angry rants, dog videos, concerts, or other simple things. It can get you busted by the police but it can also help expose horrific police brutality. From protests to celebrations and everything in between, Twitter's live video improvements could have influence beyond the app.
Twitter's senior manager for software engineering Sara Haider told the Wall Street Journal, "We think live video can take these moments and bring them to life in a way that no other medium can."
Some accounts are already trying it out:
Twitter bought Periscope two years. As Fortune reports, Twitter started allowing users to embed and watch live Periscope videos on its app back in January. Now, you can enjoy live video directly.
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