Restricted to Live streaming on Instagram with fewer than a thousand followers
Instagram has raised the bar for live streaming, requiring users to have at least 1,000 followers and public accounts to access the feature. This move aims to improve the live viewing experience, reduce low-quality streams, and save hosting costs.
Previously, all users, regardless of follower count or account privacy, could go live on Instagram. However, with the new policy, smaller creators and casual users with fewer than 1,000 followers or private accounts are barred from using the live feature.
The 1,000-follower minimum acts as a quality filter to ensure only creators with established audiences can broadcast, which helps reduce spam, inappropriate content, and server resource strain caused by very low viewership streams.
Comparing Platforms
Instagram's new policy puts it in line with TikTok's existing 1,000-follower threshold for live streaming. On the other hand, YouTube requires 50 subscribers for live access, and Twitch has no requirement for live access.
| Platform | Follower/Subscribers Requirement for Live Streaming | Additional Requirements/Notes | |----------|-----------------------------------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------| | Instagram| 1,000 followers, public account | New since mid-2025; aims to improve content quality and save costs[1][2][4] | | TikTok | 1,000 followers | Same threshold as Instagram; used across major markets[1][4] | | YouTube | 50 subscribers | Lower threshold but requires minimum age 16; livestream prerequisites differ by type of content[1] | | Twitch | No official minimum follower count for going live | Generally open to all users, but monetization features have eligibility criteria |
Criticism and Controversy
This policy change has drawn criticism from smaller creators and casual users who relied on live for real-time engagement. Some perceive the move as sidelining smaller creators who haven't yet gained a significant following, while others see it as another step towards influencer-first content on Instagram.
The change has been met with resistance, as it limits a key growth strategy for small creators. However, it also reflects Meta’s focus on platform quality and cost efficiency. The goal is to reduce the number of low-viewer streams for a cleaner, more polished Live feed experience.
With live video now behind a velvet rope, only those with at least 1,000 followers can access the feature. Attempting to go live with fewer followers results in a "Your account is no longer eligible for Live" message.
Social-media platforms Instagram and TikTok both necessitate 1,000 followers for live streaming. In contrast, YouTube requires only 50 subscribers, while Twitch doesn't impose a minimum follower count for going live.
The new policy on Instagram has resulted in entertainment limitations for smaller creators and casual users with fewer than 1,000 followers, as they are barred from using the live feature, promoting concerns about sidelining smaller creators who haven't yet gained a significant following.
