Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows users to share live streams exclusively with their Close Friends list. This feature, called “Live with Close Friends,” enables users to conduct live broadcasts that are only visible to a select group of friends rather than the public or all their followers. Here are the details:
What is the “Live with Close Friends” Feature?
- Selective Audience: Users can now choose to broadcast live videos specifically to their Close Friends list. This provides a more intimate and controlled sharing experience.
- Live Broadcasts with Up to Three People: The feature allows users to go live with up to three other people simultaneously. This is aimed at fostering more private and meaningful interactions.
Use Cases
Instagram envisions various scenarios for using this new feature, such as:
- Sharing Thoughts: Users can share what’s on their mind with a small group of friends.
- Spontaneous Meetups: Arrange impromptu meetups or hangouts with close friends.
- Humor and Jokes: Share funny moments or jokes in a private setting.
- Planning Trips: Collaborate on planning trips or events.
- Homework and Study Sessions: Work on assignments together in real-time.
- Casual Hangouts: Simply spend time together in a relaxed, real-time environment.
Background
Instagram launched its live streaming feature in 2016, primarily designed for public broadcasts. This made it popular among celebrities and influencers who used it to connect with their large follower bases. However, for regular users, the idea of going live to all followers might not be appealing.
Privacy and Control
With the new “Live with Close Friends” feature, Instagram aims to give users more control over their live broadcasts. This move could encourage more users to try live streaming, knowing that they can restrict the audience to a select group of trusted friends.
Trend Towards Private and Curated Connections
This feature aligns with Instagram’s broader push towards more private and curated interactions on its platform. In line with this, Instagram introduced the “Notes” feature last year, allowing users to share text and emoji updates that appear at the top of their friends’ inboxes for 24 hours. This was seen as a way to spark light and private conversations among friends.
Conclusion
The “Live with Close Friends” feature is part of Instagram’s ongoing effort to enhance user privacy and encourage more intimate interactions on its platform. By allowing users to control who sees their live streams, Instagram hopes to make live broadcasting a more appealing option for everyone.
What do you think about this new feature? Will it make you more likely to use Instagram Live? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
For more information, you can read the original announcement on Instagram’s blog.
