Instagram Restricts Livestreaming Access for Smaller Public Accounts

Meta's Instagram has implemented a new policy barring public accounts with fewer than 1,000 followers from accessing its Live broadcast feature. The change, which began rolling out this week, displays an eligibility message when affected users attempt to start livestreams.

Meta frames the restriction as a quality control measure, though the company hasn't clarified how limiting smaller creators improves the viewer experience. The MOVE mirrors broader platform trends toward content curation, reminiscent of TikTok's approach to broadcast controls.

Small creators reliant on live video for audience growth have voiced concerns about the policy. Meta maintains the threshold will enhance creator-viewer interactions, but provides no empirical evidence supporting this claim. The restriction will eventually extend to private accounts as implementation progresses.