Facebook is working on new features that make it easier for people to access live streams even if they don’t have a Facebook account as it tries to meet the rise in demand for live video through COVID-19.
The company will begin allowing non-Facebook users to watch live streams from mobile devices, something previously only available on desktop. The feature is already available to Android users and will be rolling out to iOS “in the coming weeks.”
The new features could also help Facebook deal with the “unprecedented” surge in demand for its services in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The company said it’s struggling to keep up with traffic, as more and more users turn to its messaging apps to stay in touch with loved ones.
Other new features are more directed toward the people hosting live events. The company’s Stars function, which allows creators to make money over streams, is expanding to musicians and cultural institutions. Up until now, it’s mostly been used by gamers. The expansion is clearly a nod to other streaming platforms, like Twitch, where artists have been hosting live, donation-based streams.
Additionally, Facebook is providing partners, mostly faith-based and education organizations, with mobile phone accessories to help them go live. It’s also launching a “live producer” feature for more professional setups that require a connected camera and software encoder. The company says this feature will make managing live streams easier and includes tools like comment moderation, overlays, and clipping.
