1. Changing Quality Expectations

To many of today’s Internet users, live streaming has always been a way of life online. Older content producers and consumers know that it’s changed a lot over the years.

In the early days, creating valuable content was the most important and arguably only thing to focus on. People weren’t overly worried about professionalism and video quality. That’s no longer the case. Modern Internet users expect a certain degree of quality, and if they don’t find it, they’ll go elsewhere

Influencers who live stream videos on Instagram, artists who interact with fans on their websites, and advertisers who create content for YouTube all need elive streaming solutions that will allow them to meet their audiences’ expectations

For those new to the game, start by focusing on high-performance video capture and encoding, then keep improving. Audiences will notice.

2. Expectations of Interactive Experiences

Today’s audiences already expect interactive experiences. This live streaming market trend isn’t new. However, the expectations surrounding interactive live streaming experiences continue to change with the times.

Since viewers are no longer satisfied with just watching content, creators have been exploring innovative ways to get their audiences involved.

Some continue to find success with more traditional methods like live polling and Qu0026amp;A sessions. Others are getting more innovative, using interactive games and challenges to make the viewing experience more engaging and immersive.

Interactive streaming is also becoming more popular among advertisers. Recent innovations like shoppable videos and methods for improving customization enhance consumer engagement significantly.

3. Cultural Shift Toward Privacy

On the other end of the spectrum, experts also expect 2024 to bring a shift in how the streaming community views consumer privacy. As users become more aware of how their information gets disseminated and used, there has been increasing pushback

More stringent regulations, including the GDPR and ePrivacy legislation, are already forcing compliance with increased privacy measures. This shift doesn’t mean that advertisers won’t be able to fulfill immersive live streaming expectations, but it does change how they do it.

Popular brands are increasingly reaching out to live streamers with sponsorships. The partnerships formed with celebrities and influencers allow them to target demographics effectively through live streaming without running afoul of regulations or creating a perceived breach of privacy.

4. The Rise of VTubing

Recent changes in how content creators think about interactive experiences aren’t just due to evolving live streaming trends. Technological innovations also contribute to more immersive experiences. They include virtual-reality live streaming, often referred to as VTubing.

For those not in the know, VTubing involves streaming content using a virtual avatar rather than a video image. VTubers often use real-time emotion capture technology to control their avatars, eliminating the bounds of physical limitations and allowing content creators to present their online personas differently.

Last year was the best yet for VTubers, who generated over 1.1B hours watched in 2023. There’s no reason to think the tides will turn on this trend, as more people than ever are embracing it. Much of the trend is likely due to increased popularity and broad acceptance of virtual reality.

As the technology required to support VR and AR streaming continues to improve, it’s also becoming more accessible. Falling prices are attracting more consumers, who then go on to become VR live streaming viewers. They attend virtual concerts, events, and meetings, helping to support the ongoing shift toward VR and AR and increasing the popularity of all forms of VTubing.

As we said at the beginning, the world of live streaming is complex, so it should come as no surprise that the most important trends interact. In this case, virtual reality dramatically changes how live streamers create interactive content.

So far, most VR live streams utilize forms of interactive content similar to those of their more traditional peers. However, VR and AR VTubing create unique opportunities for creative minds. In 2024, expect to see new forms of interactive live streaming leveraged to create connections with viewers, increase attendance at virtual events, and promote products.

5. Greater Attendance at Special Events

Special events hosted by live streamers are becoming more popular. In 2023, they constituted some of the most-watched content on YouTube Live, Twitch, and Kick. Examples of this trend include Ibai’s La Veleda Del Ano 3, WestCol’s Stream Fighters 2, and Squeezie’s GP Explorer 2.

Each of these live streaming special events set new records for peak views on at least one platform. However, that’s not the most important thing to watch when it comes to changing industry trends. People watching market trends are more interested in their year-on-year growth, which has been impressive.

High-value brands are taking notice. They are beginning to sponsor not just individual live streamers or influencers but specific events. Ibai’s boxing event is a fantastic example of this. The first virtual event, held in 2021, had a few minor sponsors, JD Sports and Everlast. In 2023, the third event was sponsored by big names like PlayStation, Samsung, Coca-Cola, and others.

Brands paying attention have noticed how effective these VR events are for advertising. As more household names continue to join in as sponsors, the budgets and the aspirations of the live streamers organizing the events should only grow in 2024.rnrnIf there’s one specific sub-sector of VR special events to watch, it’s awards shows. They attracted much attention in 2023, and experts believe viewership will only rise in 2024. This trend is good news for content creators, who organize virtual events and have the opportunity to reach new audiences by winning prizes.

6. Niche Communities Are Picking Up Steam

As live streaming becomes more popular and goes mainstream, niche communities, and micro-influencers are starting to gain steam. This may seem contradictory, but the rise of influencer culture, brand sponsorships, special events, and other major industry changes that draw in new viewers and consolidate existing audiences has propelled them forward

Content creators who focus on niche audiences can cater to small, specialized online communities with specific interests instead of trying to appeal to as many people as possible simultaneously. The creators and micro-influencers who take this approach build deep connections with audiences and create highly engaged, loyal followings.

The pervasiveness of this trend becomes clear when we look at the numbers. The global niche streaming market saw a 27.4% CAGR in 2023, and recently, 82% of Gen Z viewers indicated that they specifically seek out niche communities with personalized content.

In some cases, these niche live streaming communities exist as part of larger, more mainstream platforms. Others take things one step further and seek out or create niche, entirely separate video platforms. Either way, it creates opportunities for content creators who are just getting started and haven’t yet found ways to reach wider audiences.

7. More Tools for Multistreaming

Multistreaming is nothing new. Content creators have been diversifying their live streaming presence across platforms for years. They often stream on YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, Twitch, and Kick simultaneously, allowing them to reach broader audiences to maximize exposure.

Even as other trends like niche live streams and micro-influencing continue to gain steam, u003ca href=”https://www.epiphan.com/blog/how-to-multistream/”>multistreaming> is becoming more popular. Of course, part of the reason this trend is still evolving is that constantly new platforms are coming out that either cater to live streaming specifically or incorporate it into other forms of content creation

Part of the reason that more live streamers than ever are multistreaming is also that established platforms continue to offer more tools and integrations that streamline the process. In years past, it used to be a challenge to manage multiple streams simultaneously. Now, as long as content creators have the right hardware and software to do so, they can multistream much more efficiently.

8. Global Markets Are Shifting

More traditional forms of live streaming, including virtual events and interactive streaming, that use standard equipment, have been popular the world over for long enough that every region has its share of creators and influencers. However, the global markets are still shifting in two ways that are important to watch.

The first is that platform availability is changing where the world’s most popular live streamers are doing business. Twitch pulling out of South Korea is a perfect example. When Twitch announced at the end of 2023 that they would cease all operations in the country due to prohibitively high network fees in February 2024, 19 of the top 20 most-watched VTubers were based on the platform.

These creators are independent. They are not affiliated with agencies or brands. At the beginning of the year, they all had to decide which platforms to use as Twitch shut down. Most opted for YouTube Live, AfreecaTV, or the new South Korean platform CHZZK. This influx of content creators and viewers changed the global live streaming landscape

The second way that the global live streaming scene is changing is that some nations’ live streaming sectors are growing while others are falling. China, specifically, appears slated to make big moves in 2024.

Viewers from different regions of the world have unique tastes. In Southeast Asia, the most watched streams are represented by the mobile gaming industry.

China is not the only country with a growing mobile gaming live streaming sector. In 2023, Battlegrounds Mobile India generated 34% more hours watched on YouTube Gaming than it had in 2022, and that trend is set to continue.

9. Evolving Use of AI

Artificial intelligence became popular in the live streaming industry last year. Content creators had already been using assistant bots and media creators. The difference is that now, AI streamers are gaining popularity

Vedal987 is a great example. Also known as Neuro-sama, the AI streamer generated 5.38M hours watched in 2023. The AI can interact with viewers through chat, react to their submitted photos, and create an immersive experience.

Currently, AI streamers are the exception rather than the rule. The primary role of AI in the live streaming industry is as chatbots associated with human live streaming personalities. The bots perfect themselves over time and effectively moderate chats without altering content creators’ brands.

Many industry observers believe that AI will take on a new role in 2024, further increasing the popularity of VTubing. AI can create VTubing avatars for far less than it costs to purchase the expensive 3D models and rigging setups currently used by the most popular VTubers

Because AI is constantly evolving, there’s no way to know how it will be used by the end of 2024. What’s clear is that AI is here to stay and content creators are already finding new and innovative ways to incorporate it into their brands.

1. Determine the Goal of the Live Stream

What do you hope to accomplish with this broadcast? Do you want to bring in new viewers or generate additional leads? Having a goal in mind simplifies the planning process. To boost sales, the live stream might launch a new product or service. To grow the audience, the broadcast could share breaking news in the industry. A well-planned broadcast is easy to repurpose after the event as demand-gen content.

2. Select a Topic

Narrow the options to a single topic the broadcast will cover. Determine what the message of the broadcast should be. When you know the topic thoroughly, you can speak knowledgeably. Your confidence when doing so will come across in the broadcast.

Focusing on one theme allows viewers to associate with the topic. Keep a narrow focus throughout the event. This focus allows you to showcase your expertise and thought leadership. The audience will feel as if they gain value from participating in the live stream.

Determine the format of the live stream. Some topics are well-suited for question-and-answer sessions. When launching a new product, you might do a reveal or a how-to video. Interviews and behind-the-scenes broadcasts also draw people in.

3. Hire a Crew

Many people do live streams on their own using nothing more than a mobile device. These productions typically are of low quality and don’t present a professional image. Don’t make this mistake. Hire a crew to help you produce a quality live stream that attracts viewers for the right reasons.

The crew may engage with viewers throughout the event, man cameras, help with product how-to videos, and more.

At a minimum, spend the money to bring in an event producer and sound technician. Once these individuals are in place, determine if additional crew members are needed. The number of workers required typically correlates with the size of the broadcast.

4. Choose One or More Target Destinations

Some live streams only appear on one marketing channel to increase the fan base on that channel. Other broadcasts appear across multiple platforms and reach a broader audience. Know which channels the target audience prefers to meet them where they are.

Determine when members of the target audience spend most of their time online. Know what barriers exist for these members and how to work around them. Work schedules and time zones are two factors that you need to consider when deciding when to hold the live stream and draw the largest audience.

Experts recommend establishing a consistent schedule for live streams. Viewers know when to expect new content. This information allows them to plan for future broadcasts and to share these events with others who might also be interested in the content.

5. Invest in Quality Streaming Equipment

Viewers won’t stick around if they cannot see or hear the video. Invest in quality equipment for the streaming event to draw viewers in and keep them engaged. Many people believe the best way to live stream is with a phone or mobile device, as they can broadcast anytime and anywhere. However, a live stream that is of low quality makes them appear unprofessional and ill-prepared. High-quality streaming equipment is an investment in the future, so budget for excellent equipment.

A high-quality camera provides better resolution, but you may have a shaky picture if someone holds the camera during the event. Purchase a tripod to prevent this common problem. Upgrade audio equipment for clear sound, and purchase a lighting scheme that allows everyone to be seen in their best light.

Internet bandwidth also plays a role in a successful live stream. Estimate the number of simultaneous viewers and make certain the bandwidth can handle this volume. Update your device and install video compression software to deliver the broadcast. While it may be easier to grab a phone or mobile device and start shooting, doing so could leave viewers with an unfavorable impression. Avoid this by making high-quality equipment a priority.

6. Consider Multistreaming

A person new to live streaming might use one camera for the entire broadcast. Allow your event to stand out by using multiple cameras to provide different angles throughout the show. Purchase a video switcher to move seamlessly between these devices during the broadcast. Adding logo overlays, subtitles, and other computer inputs into the live stream is effortless with this device.

Multiple microphones or a podium mic add a new level to the broadcast. Invest in an audio mixer to send audio to the video stream. Test this equipment before the event to confirm all pieces work together.

7. Create an Outline

One of the most important live streaming tips a person can receive is to prepare an outline for each broadcast. This outline ensures the event follows a logical order. It also helps the host remember all the points they should cover during the broadcast. Focus on building a framework of points rather than writing a script. The script will sound forced and unnatural, which viewers don’t like.

Increase engagement by offering content that cannot be found elsewhere. Use animations to grab a viewer’s attention. Elements such as these ensure the event is memorable to the viewers.

Many people choose to use a storyboard for this outline. This storyboard helps you visualize the sequence of the broadcast. When creating this storyboard, determine which format to use and create frames for each segment of the live stream. Include talking points and engagement cues to keep viewers engaged. List different shots and angles on this storyboard, along with camera movements and transitions. Make adjustments to the board as needed until you have the perfect outline for the event.

8. Build a Set

Create a backdrop for the event to ensure background elements don’t interfere with the delivery of the desired message. A clean and uncluttered workspace suggests to the viewer that you are in control. The first impression sets the tone for the entire relationship, so make certain the set presents the image you want it to.

9. Test the Connection

Never plan a live stream until you have a stable internet connection. No viewer wants to sit through a live stream that constantly buffers. A stable connection remains one of the biggest challenges for hosts. One of the easiest ways to avoid this challenge is through the use of an ethernet cable and a dedicated connection. No other system will connect to the network and interfere with the event. Test the internet speed before going live on the day of the event using a site such as speedtest.net.

10. Promote the Event

People can only view a live stream when they know it is occurring. Promote the event a few days in advance, using multiple channels to do so. Ask guest speakers to do the same, as they can draw more viewers in. When promoting the event, always share the date and time of the live stream along with where viewers may find it. Tease the topic to generate additional interest.

Post the event regularly on social media and through email marketing. People lead busy lives and these reminders ensure they don’t miss the event. Use a hashtag to make sharing the broadcast easy and create buzz. This hashtag makes it easy for followers to interact with the brand and the live stream. On the day of the event, post reminders and teasers to drive real-time traffic to the live stream.

11. Prepare Guests

Prepare guests before the event to ensure a successful broadcast. Confirm their system meets the basic requirements to join the broadcast and provide a calendar invitation that outlines the steps to join the event. Share a list of topics and questions to be asked, so they know what to expect, and invite them to join a dry run of the event. Ask guests to join the event ten minutes before the broadcast goes live to address any issues and prevent delays.

12. Conduct a Practice Run

A practice run is the equivalent of a dress rehearsal. It provides you with the opportunity to confirm all equipment works correctly and practice your delivery. Use this time to uncover any potential problems and find solutions before the event.

13. Add Graphics

Add titles and graphics to provide viewers with a seamless experience. Incorporate the brand colors and logo to increase brand visibility. However, don’t overwhelm the viewers with text. Limit the use of titles and text to the beginning and end of the live stream. You may also use it to introduce new topics or guest speakers, but keep it to a minimum elsewhere.

14. Countdown to the Event

Viewers may wish to join the stream early to guarantee they don’t miss anything. Other viewers might forget about the event if they don’t receive reminders when the event is quickly nearing. Create a countdown timer to generate excitement, provide a gentle reminder of the live stream start time, and help those who live in other time zones know when to log on to watch. This time may begin several hours before the event, or you might start it 10 or 15 minutes before the event launch time. It is a matter of preference.

15. Engage With Viewers

Establish a system where you can respond to comments during the broadcast. Assign a person to monitor the feed and share questions that will add to the broadcast. This engagement helps you build a strong relationship with listeners and will encourage them to return for future events.

16. Conclude the Live Stream

Many hosts allow the screen to fade to black when the event ends. Don’t waste this valuable time when many viewers remain online and focused on the screen. Use the blank space to share information about yourself, your organization, or the event.

17. Collect Data to Improve Future Live Streams

Select a platform that collects data so you gain insight into what works and what doesn’t. Learn who attends these events and how often they play the content. Are viewers dropping out before the stream ends? If so, where do they leave? Discover how much time they spend watching the video and what device they use when doing so. Certain platforms provide information about which brand device the user is viewing the content on and more.

With this information, you gain a better understanding of the viewers’ interests. Qualifying prospects becomes easier and you can learn what viewers like. Bring this information together to make live video streaming events more successful in the future.

18. Extend the Lifespan of the Live Stream

People might miss the live event because they have prior commitments. Offer replays to get more from the broadcast. You may also take pieces from the broadcast and use them as marketing materials or to tease future events. Pull clips from the event and share them on social media to generate interest in future broadcasts and come up with a sizzle reel to post on your website. One live stream can go a long way when you know how to leverage the material.

19. Request Guest Feedback

Guests play an important role in live streams. They take an active part in making the event a success and can provide insight into what worked for them and what didn’t. Their input provides you with a different perspective on the live stream. Use this information to better meet the needs of guests in the future while improving the overall experience for all.

You must prepare for a live stream thoroughly. Any detail overlooked during the planning stage could lead to an event that is a dismal failure. During this broadcast, you connect with real human beings, and the presentation of this event plays a major role in their perception of you or your organization. Never lower your standards when hosting a live stream. No broadcast is better than a live stream with issues.

Why hardware encoders are essential

There are two types of encoders: hardware and software.

Hardware encoders offer superior performance and reliability, two key factors that ensure consistent results in streaming and recording professional video. Hardware encoders are specifically designed and optimized to handle multiple high-end audio and video sources without dropping frames or interrupting the stream.

Meanwhile, software encoders run off general-purpose GPUs and CPUs to perform the same function. You need to own one or several computers powerful enough to encode video, or software encoders may be interrupted by background operations. Furthermore, assessing a computer’s requirements can be a long process depending on what kind and how much content is produced.

Rather than constantly evaluating how to optimize one or many computers to work as encoders, hardware encoders have already gone through rigorous tests to ensure the Wowza stream runs smoothly.

Flexible inputs

Audio and video inputs available are the first thing to check in a Wowza hardware encoder. By leveraging a wide range of input options, a hardware encoder can accommodate a variety of equipment you already own – cameras, mixers, and more.

A device that supports HDMI, SDI, and USB all at once means you’ll be able to connect any camera available in any given situation without worrying about easily misplaced adapters. The same is true for audio inputs. A device that supports XLR or RCA stereo means that Wowza can acquire the professional audio gear you need to tell your story.

When you have options to connect your equipment, you can confidently capture the content with whatever’s available. But flexible inputs aren’t limited to physical connections. The rise of hybrid and remote video production means it’s crucial to accommodate remote contributors who may not have access to anything besides video conferencing apps.

A hardware solution that can add remote guests to a production with AV over IP solutions like Network Device Interface (NDI) and Secure Reliable Transport (SRT) opens up a world of possibilities. With the ability to add guests from conferencing tools like Microsoft Teams or Zoom, any space can become a studio, empowering you to create with more flexibility while delivering an exceptional experience to Wowza Video.

Production needs will grow and change over time. There will be new cameras, sound equipment, and ways to bring in remote guests, Prioritizing a flexible hardware encoder for Wowza Video, which already works with everything and continues to adapt to wherever the industry goes next, allows your workflows to adapt to the unique needs of each production.

Streaming protocols

Once a hardware encoder captures the audio and video, it must be transported to the Wowza Video platform. And just like the acquisition of your audio and video, the flexibility with which you can get this content onto Wowza is a massive asset to your content plans.

At the bare minimum, a hardware encoder needs to be able to stream your content to Wowza via the RTMP protocol in H.264, which is easy to find. But Wowza Video supports a wide range of streaming protocols including RTMPS, RTSP, MPEG-DASH, HLS, and SRT.

The best streaming protocol for first-mile delivery to Wowza Video depends on the production. For example, HLS supports up to 4K video and can be delivered across unpredictable networks thanks to its ability to adapt, but it achieves this by adding latency to the stream. Meanwhile, SRT was built to provide low-latency, high-quality video over unreliable Internet connection, making it an ideal choice for any live content that requires real-time communication between talent and audience.

A Wowza hardware encoder that supports multiple different protocols for first-mile delivery so that you can send the possible content for any network conditions, codecs, and type of content.

Cloud and remote management

Whether you plan on streaming from multiple locations or a single studio, accessing one of several Wowza hardware encoders from a single, centralized dashboard makes life easier for all stakeholders.

A hardware encoder configured, monitored, maintained, and operated from anywhere reduces downtime by eliminating legwork or travel time to diagnose the issue interrupting the stream or record.

Ideally, a remote-manageable device includes 24/7 device monitoring and customized alerts, allowing any team member to identify and resolve issues. In addition, remote management should also allow content control, quick configuration, starting and stopping, and the verification that everything is working as intended for the highest quality audience experience.

Remote device access and management offer invaluable peace of mind that the hardware is doing its job to deliver exceptional content to your audience.

Before the hardware was retired, a significant benefit of the Wowza ClearCaster was Cloud Orchestration. This allowed owners to take complete control of an entire fleet from anywhere in the world. Thankfully, many manufacturers have followed suit and it’s possible to find devices that can be accessed, monitored, and controlled in the cloud.

Stream to Wowza with Epiphan Pearl

Following the announcement that the Wowza ClearCaster would be discontinued at the end of 2023, Wowza recommended Epiphan Pearl systems as one of the best hardware encoders for live streaming.

Pearl systems provide all the essential tools to create top-quality content for Wowza Video. With purpose-built components and a wide range of physical and AV over IP inputs, you can acquire signals from virtually any device and trust it to perform.

Pearl offers multiple streaming protocols such as SRT, HLS, RTMPS, and more, ensuring your content reaches Wowza in the best quality. Their lightweight and portable design makes them suitable for any environment. Furthermore, Epiphan Cloud enables you to manage one or several devices 24/7 from anywhere.

Discover which Pearl is right for your Wowza Video projects.

Live stream together on StreamYard

If you’re new to live streaming, StreamYard is a great way to test out if this medium is right for you and your brand. 

The robust free version gives you the option of 6 on-screen participants, banners, brand colors, screen sharing, and the ability to stream on all major platforms – a great opportunity to test whether your streams get more traction on Facebook, Twitch, or YouTube. And to do all this, all you need is an internet connection and a web browser.

As a bonus, adding a guest to a StreamYard stream is simple. Click “Invite” at the bottom of the screen, which will give you a link you can copy and send to whomever you’ve invited to join via email or text. Once that’s done, sit back, wait for them to click the link, and you’re ready to go live. 

Join a stream with vMix Call

vMix is a production software, enabling users to switch inputs, mix audio, record outputs, and live stream. It’s a powerful tool that adds a level of production value and professionalism to live streams.

You will need to purchase at least the HD lifetime license ($350 USD) to unlock the vMix Call feature to host a single caller. To host four callers, you’ll need the 4K lifetime license ($700 USD). Without vMix Call, you won’t be able to add guests to your live stream.

Once you’ve chosen the vMix license that best suits your needs, go to the bottom left-hand corner of the app and click “Add Input.” This will open the Input Select menu. At the very bottom of the left-hand column, select “Video Call.” Select the green “Host a Call” button. Copy the link generated and send it to your guest via email or text.

After you’ve sent your guest the link, wait for them to join the call, and stream the show to YouTube, Twitch, or Facebook, with the ability to switch and mix on the fly. 

Adding guests via Zoom isolated full screens

If you’ve ever been on a Zoom call and thought, “Can’t I just live stream this?” You’re definitely on to something, but it’s a little bit more complicated to execute with a level of professionalism.

To make an ordinary Zoom call look like a professional live stream requires access to multiple computers, an encoder, and – ideally – an experienced producer.

First, have the producer set up separate computers for each speaker joining the live stream. For example, a stream with two guests and a host will require three separate computers. Send the invite to all participants like you would for any standard Zoom call. 

On each device, the producer must fullscreen and pin each speaker’s individual feed. Once every speaker is pinned, the producer must then run each computer into a hardware encoder or streaming software. The individual computers have essentially been converted into video sources that can now be cropped and laid out for the optimal viewing experience. Once all graphics and layouts have been set up, stream to the CDN of your choice. 

Live stream with guests with Microsoft Teams NDI-out

Using Microsoft Teams as the foundation for your live stream is always a good idea. This familiar app most guests already use daily instantly puts them at ease. 

While Microsoft Teams makes it very simple for guests to join your live stream, there are still a few things you need to do if you’re going the NDI route. 

Before the Microsoft Teams meeting begins, make sure you – or the MS Teams administrator – has enabled NDI streaming in the admin center. When your guests join the Teams meeting, you should see a purple button on the bottom left that reads, “Broadcast over NDI.” Click this and it will generate a primary speaker stream, a local stream, individual user streams, and a screen-sharing stream.

Select the streams you need for the live show and place them in your production tool of choice, enjoying a high-quality, clean video of each guest.

Live stream with guests on Microsoft Teams and Epiphan Connect

Finally, the application that bridges familiarity and comfort for guests with reliability and creative control for producers. 

Epiphan Connect turns any ordinary Microsoft Teams meeting into a virtual studio in a few simple clicks. 

Simply schedule a Microsoft Teams meeting as you normally would, inviting the guests you plan on featuring on the stream. Then paste the meeting URL into Epiphan Connect.

When the meeting begins, the Epiphan Connect bot will join the call and isolate each participant’s video and audio. From the Epiphan Connect dashboard, collect the isolated feeds and place them into your production tool of choice. 

To see it in action, watch how Microsoft Corp was able to leverage Epiphan Connect to elevate its global all-hands event into an engaging video experience without the costs and complexity of typical event productions.

How to stream on Facebook: Web browser

One of the simplest ways to live stream on Facebook is straight from your web browser using a built-in or external USB webcam.

A webcam may be all you need if your only aim is to share your thoughts and engage with your audience in real time. (If you’re in the market for one, be sure to check out our blog on the best webcams for streaming.)

It’s also possible to live stream through your browser with a higher-end camera, such as a digital camcorder or mirrorless camera. To do so, you’ll need a HDMI-to-USB adapter to bring the video signal into your computer. Then Facebook can recognize the camera as if it were a plug-and-play webcam.

Once you’re all set with a camera, here’s how to stream on Facebook through your web browser:

1. 1. Log in to your Facebook account and access Facebook Live from:
      • Your News Feed – Click on the camera icon that says “Live video” below where you’d enter text for a post.
      • A Facebook Page you manage – Click on the “Live” button in the “Create” box near the top of the feed.
   2. Choose whether you’d like to go live now or make an event of it with the “Create live video event” option. If you’re going live now, be sure to toggle “Create a test broadcast before going live” before you hit “Select.”
   3. Choose “Webcam” under “Select a video source” at the top.
   4. If prompted, give Facebook and your browser permission to use your camera and microphone. (If you don’t see this pop-up, you may have to go into your browser settings to enable camera/microphone access.)
   5. Select your camera and microphone from the “Camera controls” box.
   6. Where it says “Add post details” on the right, customize the stream to your liking: give it a title and description, upload a thumbnail image, decide if you’d like to cross-post to any other Facebook Groups (that you manage, or that allow live video), etc.
   7. In the “Create live video” pane on the left, confirm where you’d like to post and when (“Now” to start as soon as you hit the “Go live” button, or “Later” to schedule a stream for another time).
   8. Within the same pane, enter the “Interactivity” submenu and determine if you’d like to use any of the features there (i.e., Polls, Questions, Graphics, Prompts).
   9. Hit “Go live” or “Schedule live video” at the bottom of the pane on the left side of the screen. (If the button is greyed out and unclickable, confirm that your camera is connected and that you’ve filled out your post details.)

That’s it. Remember to press “End live video” at the bottom of the pane on the left side of the screen when you’re done.

Facebook will post a replay to your Timeline soon after. This way, viewers who missed it can play back your live video. You can prevent this by clicking the red “Delete video” text on the session end screen. From the same screen, you can also trim your video or make a clip.

To see and manage all your current, scheduled, and past live videos, click the three-by-three cluster of dots in the top nav and then find “Creator Studio” in the drop-down menu (under “Professional”).

How to stream on Facebook: Mobile device

Mobile live streaming is ideal for spur-of-the-moment audience engagement and dynamic events where freedom of movement is key to a compelling webcast.

Facebook live streaming on a mobile device is pretty simple:

1. 1. Download the Facebook app from the App Store (iOS) or Google Play (Android).
   2. Open the app, log in to your Facebook account, and access the “Create Post” menu from your news feed or a Facebook Page you manage.
   3. Select “Live video” from the list of options below the text field.
   4. Grant any permissions Facebook needs for live streaming (camera, microphone).
   5. If you accessed Facebook Live from your timeline rather than a page, set your audience (public, friends, certain friends, friends of friends) by clicking on the downward arrow alongside the “To:” field in the top-left corner of the screen.
   6. Tap the text field at the bottom of the screen and add a description, tag other users, etc.
   7. Click the hamburger menu at the bottom to add a location to your post, add up to three other users to your stream, and/or set up polls for engagement.
      • You can also create and schedule a live event from here by tapping the calendar icon to the right of the “Go Live” button.
   8. When you’re ready to start, press the blue “Go Live” button.

Now you’re ready for some untethered live streaming. There are a bunch of fun options to explore (filters, masks, etc.), which you can access from the magic wand icon at the top of the screen before the stream starts, or from the ribbon at the bottom while streaming. These are fun to play around with, particularly for social streamers. If you’re not looking to add some visual flair (or chaos) to your live stream, ensure you don’t have any of these options toggled before going live.

When you’re done, hit “Finish” in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Then decide whether you’d like to post a replay to your Timeline. Press “Next” at the bottom of the screen, or hit the bin icon to the right of it to trash the recording. If want to edit the details of your live video replays after the fact, the easiest way is via Facebook’s Creator Studio through your browser.

How to stream on Facebook: Streaming application

Use live streaming software if you want to access extra production features or use multiple cameras or video sources. Open Broadcaster Software (OBS), XSplit, and Wirecast are just a few of your options.

Any streaming software should automatically detect any USB-based cameras connected to your computer. You can also bring non-USB video signal into your computer through a USB capture card. Your streaming software should then recognize the camera as a USB video class (UVC) device.

The exact process of live streaming on Facebook with a software encoder will depend on the software you’re using, but it should look a little something like this:

1. 1. Download and install your preferred streaming software.
   2. Log in to your Facebook account and access Facebook Live from:
      • Your News Feed – Click on the camera icon that says “Live video” below where you’d enter text for a post.
      • A Facebook Page you manage – Click on the “Live” button in the “Create” box near the top of the feed.
   3. Choose whether you’d like to go live now or make an event of it with the “Create live video event” option. If you’re going live now, be sure to toggle “Create a test broadcast before going live” before you hit “Select.”
   4. Ensure “Streaming software” is highlighted under “Select a video source” at the top.
   5. In the “Streaming software setup” box, copy the stream key to your clipboard. (Keep this string of characters private.)
   6. Open your streaming software and paste the “Stream key” — and, if required, the “Server URL” — from Facebook into the appropriate field. Refer to the user documentation for the software you’re using if you’re not sure where to look.
      • If Server URL is required – On Facebook, open the “Advanced Settings” menu under the stream key to find the Server URL. You can also establish a backup stream here using the toggle and then the separate stream key that appears.
   7. Start the stream via your streaming software. Back on Facebook, check that the live video preview looks good.
   8. On Facebook, where it says “Add post details” on the right, customize the stream to your liking. Give it a title and description, upload a thumbnail image, decide if you’d like to cross-post to any other Facebook Groups, etc.
   9. In the “Create live video” pane on the left, confirm where you’d like to post and when (“Now” to start as soon as you hit the “Go live” button, or “Later” to schedule a stream for another time).
   10. From the same pane, enter the “Interactivity” submenu and determine if you’d like to use any of the features there (i.e., Polls, Questions, Graphics, Prompts).
   11. Hit “Go live” or “Schedule live video” at the bottom of the pane on the left side of the screen. (If the button is greyed out and unclickable, confirm that your streaming software is connected and post details are filled out.)
       • If you scheduled your Facebook live stream for later, open your streaming software before the set time and turn on streaming.

End your stream through your streaming app once the show’s over. A replay will appear on your Timeline soon after for anyone who missed your live stream. You can review and manage all your live video replays through Facebook’s Creator Studio.

How to stream on Facebook: Hardware encoder

What’s a hardware encoder?

A hardware encoder is an appliance purpose-built for video streaming, capturing, recording – or all three.

Running your Facebook live stream through a hardware encoder offers a number of advantages over using a web browser or mobile device. These benefits make hardware encoders the best option for businesses shooting high-stakes events (e.g., concerts, sports matchups) and anyone who wants to elevate the look of their live streams.

Essentially, hardware encoders make it easier to produce polished, multi-camera live streams that are sure to impress and engage your audience. How? Flexibility is one of the major benefits. A lot of hardware encoders include multiple inputs for video and professional audio, letting you connect and stream HDMI and SDI cameras, laptops, tablets, XLR or TRS microphones, and more. And as dedicated devices, hardware encoders often perform better than software encoders. That’s because software encoders have to share resources with your computer’s operating system and any active processes. (Check out our post on the advantages of hardware vs. software encoding if you’d like to learn more.

There’s a wide range of live streaming hardware on the market, which makes it impossible to write a definitive guide to making hardware encoders work with Facebook. For that reason, we’ll walk through how to stream on Facebook using our Pearl encoder hardware. If you’re not using a Pearl system, we encourage you to review the user documentation for your appliance or reach out to the manufacturer.

Pearl Nano, Pearl Mini, or Pearl-2

For an in-depth look at how to configure Pearl Nano, Pearl Mini, or Pearl-2 for optimal live streaming, check out our live stream beginner’s survival guide. Also see Facebook’s video format guidelines for live streaming.

Here’s how to live stream on Facebook using an Epiphan Pearl system:

1. Log in to your Facebook account and access Facebook Live from:
   • Your News Feed – Click on the camera icon that says “Live video” below where you’d enter text for a post.
   • A Facebook Page you manage – Click on the “Live” button in the “Create” box near the top of the feed.
2. Choose whether you’d like to go live now or make an event of it with the “Create live video event” option. If you’re going live now, be sure to toggle “Create a test broadcast before going live” before you hit “Select.”
3. Ensure “Streaming software” is highlighted under “Select a video source” at the top.
4. In the “Streaming software setup” box, copy the stream key to your clipboard. (Keep this string of characters private.)
5. Log in to the Pearl web UI. In the side nav, select “Streaming” under the channel you want to live stream.
6. Paste your “Stream Key” from Facebook into the “Stream name” field.
7. Click “Apply.”
8. Back on Facebook, click open the “Advanced Settings” menu under the stream key to find the Server URL. Copy it. You can also establish a backup stream here using the toggle and then the separate stream key that appears.
9. Flip back to the Pearl web UI and paste the Server URL in the “URL” field under the channel you want to live stream.

10. Press “Start” in the top-right corner of the Pearl web UI streaming menu. Return to Facebook and ensure the stream preview looks good.
11. In the “Create live video” pane on the left, confirm where you’d like to post and when (“Now” to start as soon as you hit the “Go live” button, or “Later” to schedule a stream for another time).
12. From the same pane, enter the “Interactivity” submenu and determine if you’d like to use any of the features there (i.e., Polls, Questions, Graphics, Prompts).
13. Hit “Go live” or “Schedule live video” at the bottom of the pane on the left side of the screen. (If the button is greyed out and unclickable, be sure that your encoder is connected and that the post details are filled out.)
    • If you scheduled your Facebook live stream for later, start streaming on your appliance before the set time.

You’re live on Facebook! Select “Stop” on the Pearl web UI when your stream is over.

1. Stay top of mind with your audience

With streaming solutions, you can easily keep in touch with anyone interested in your brand, wherever they are. For example, suppose you live stream on YouTube, Facebook, or LinkedIn Live. In that case, your followers receive alerts whenever you broadcast.

At the same time, some social media search algorithms favor live video over other kinds of content. Perhaps That’s because people watch live streams up to three times longer than on-demand video.

2. Increase brand awareness

Live events are a great way to make new connections and generate new leads for your business. You can even team up with partner companies and online influencers to expand your reach to multiple audiences.

3. Build trust and brand loyalty

Customers want to feel personally connected to the brands they follow. When you reach out with live video, you can provide experiences that help them get to know, like, and trust you and your company. Provide valuable content like sneak peeks, tutorials, or educational material that meets the needs of your ideal customers, and they’ll keep coming back.

4. Provide more authentic opportunities for engagement

While there’s a place for on-demand video content in your marketing, brand followers also like the authenticity of live broadcasts. Presenters are a little more real, mistakes happen, and there are opportunities for instant feedback. In addition, with a real-time connection, live chat, and Q&A sessions, you humanize your brand, and your viewers become more engaged in the conversation.

5. Establish credibility and thought leadership in your field

Regular live broadcasts targeting decision-makers provide publicity and help you build authority in your field. When your company’s subject-matter experts share innovative ideas and solutions to problems impacting your industry, you’ll bring credibility to your brand, drive traffic to your website, and create meaningful relationships with your customers.

6. Increase your event reach beyond in-person boundaries

Virtual streaming events eliminate geographical constraints so you can expand your reach far beyond your own city. You can reach a global audience without extensive travel, saving you and your customers time and money.

7. Connect internally with remote and global teams

Live streaming isn’t just for external communication. It can also strengthen relationships and enhance corporate culture. Perfect for international, remote, or hybrid scenarios, many organizations use live video platforms to host virtual meetings, trainings, team-building exercises, and collaboration sessions for their teams.

8. Generate additional revenue

You could charge an entry fee for your live stream event or a subscription fee for ongoing membership, but even free events can provide profit opportunities. For example, you can sell branded merchandise, offer digital downloads, and promote products and services during the live stream, or turn your event into paid, on-demand sessions in the future. For large events, sponsorship may also be an option.

9. Increase conversion

When your leads attend an online event, they’re already aware of your products and services. They’ve already set time aside for you and proven they’re interested in hearing what you have to say, so they’re also more likely to buy during or after the event. In addition, many business live streaming platforms integrate with your marketing tools, such as CRMs, to help you continue the conversation after you sign off.

10. Repurpose content

Most people need to hear information multiple times before the message sinks in. So, share video clips across social media, in regular emails, or even in your sales presentations. You can also use your video content as a starting point to create new material for blogs, ebooks, and infographics.

The live streaming market is booming

As an industry, live streaming is already worth billions of dollars – and it’s only expected to grow. According to various projections, including one by Grand View Research, the live streaming industry is expected to climb from $70 billion in 2021 to almost $224 billion in 2028. That’s a projected three-fold increase over seven years!

Unprecedented demand for live video content is driving this growth. Consider:

• 63% of people ages 18–34 watch live streaming content regularly (Source: Statista).
• Live content earns 27% more minutes of watch time per viewing than video on-demand content (Source: Conviva).
• People watch live video 10 to 20 times longer than on-demand content (Source: Forrester).

According to a 2021 survey by Forrester, brands expect to invest more than $100 billion on video content by 2023.

Live streaming is a powerful marketing tool

If you’re not live streaming today, is it worth making it part of your marketing mix? Absolutely. Consider these live streaming statistics from Livestream:

• 80% of consumers prefer to watch live videos from a brand than read a blog, and 82% prefer a live stream over reading a social media post.
• 67% of audiences who watched a live stream purchased a ticket to a similar event the next time it occurred.
• 45% of live video audiences would pay for live, exclusive, on-demand video from a favorite team, speaker, or performer.

Marketers have taken notice of the power of live streaming, citing a number of compelling benefits, citing a number of compelling benefits according to Go-Globe:

• 79% say live video facilitates a more authentic interaction with an audience, according to Go-Globe.
• 61% say live streaming video creates content that can be viewed or repurposed later.
• 60% say getting real-time audience feedback is a key benefit.

Live video marketing isn’t just a pandemic trend, either. In fact, 91% of marketers who were live streaming during the pandemic said they will continue even after it ends.

Live video quality matters

When it comes to live video, a low level of latency can entice many viewers to tune in to a live stream, while poor production quality is apt to drive more than half away:

• 64% report being more likely to watch live events online if the stream is not delayed from the broadcast (Source: Limelight).
• More than 50% of live streaming viewers leave a low-quality stream in 90 seconds or less (Source: Limelight).

Social media live streaming continues to grow

Live streaming on social media continues to be an effective tool for individuals and brands looking to reach and connect with audiences in a meaningful way:

• In 2020, LinkedIn Live reported 158% more popularity, seven times more reactions, and 24 times more comments on live video over VOD content (Source: LinkedIn).
• Facebook Live is the most commonly listed platform for live video consumption (Source: Influencer Marketing Hub)
• In 2020, one in every five Facebook videos was a live stream, and people watched them three times longer than pre-recorded content (Source: Facebook IQ).
• According to a 2020 study, 70% of users preferred YouTube Live over other live social media platforms (Source: Vimeo).

Gaming is the king of live streaming

Esports is a big driver of live streaming:

• 54% of all live streaming content on the Internet is about gaming/esports (Source: Restream)
• In 2020, YouTube live streaming saw watch time from video game live streams grow to over 10 billion hours. (Source: YouTube)

Of all the gaming platforms out there, Twitch is currently the most popular:

• Twitch boasts 30 million daily visitors, over 9.3 billion hours of live streams consumed in 2019, and a market share of 73%. (Source: Statista)
• In January 2021, Twitch hit a record of 9.89 million monthly active live streamers. Since then, this number has been consistently fluctuating between 7 and 9 million active live streamers each month. (Source: Statista)
• Twitch has more than 15 million unique daily visitors and three million content creators, as well as more than 500,000 active daily streamers (Source: VentureBeat).

You might be tempted to dismiss gaming as an activity for teenagers. In truth, esports is a giant industry that includes and caters to people of all ages, representing a huge live streaming market share.

Is live streaming worthwhile in 2022?

Bottom line: live streaming is a powerful tool for marketers, and there are plenty of reasons your business should consider live streaming.

Live video is a dynamic, fast-growing industry that presents tremendous opportunities to businesses of all sizes. We hope you find these live streaming statistics helping in creating your own live video strategy.

Looking for more inspiration? There are plenty of examples of brands using live streaming effectively to increase brand awareness and build trust with their audience.

The live streaming market is booming

As an industry, live streaming is already worth billions of dollars – and it’s only expected to grow. According to various projections, including one by Grand View Research, the live streaming industry is expected to climb from $70 billion in 2021 to almost $224 billion in 2028. That’s a projected three-fold increase over seven years!

Unprecedented demand for live video content is driving this growth. Consider:

• 63% of people ages 18–34 watch live streaming content regularly (Source: Statista).
• Live content earns 27% more minutes of watch time per viewing than video on-demand content (Source: Conviva).
• People watch live video 10 to 20 times longer than on-demand content (Source: Forrester).

According to a 2021 survey by Forrester, brands expect to invest more than $100 billion on video content by 2023.

Live streaming is a powerful marketing tool

If you’re not live streaming today, is it worth making it part of your marketing mix? Absolutely. Consider these live streaming statistics from Livestream:

• 80% of consumers prefer to watch live videos from a brand than read a blog, and 82% prefer a live stream over reading a social media post.
• 67% of audiences who watched a live stream purchased a ticket to a similar event the next time it occurred.
• 45% of live video audiences would pay for live, exclusive, on-demand video from a favorite team, speaker, or performer.

Marketers have taken notice of the power of live streaming, citing a number of compelling benefits, citing a number of compelling benefits according to Go-Globe:

• 79% say live video facilitates a more authentic interaction with an audience, according to Go-Globe.
• 61% say live streaming video creates content that can be viewed or repurposed later.
• 60% say getting real-time audience feedback is a key benefit.

Live video marketing isn’t just a pandemic trend, either. In fact, 91% of marketers who were live streaming during the pandemic said they will continue even after it ends.

Live video quality matters

When it comes to live video, a low level of latency can entice many viewers to tune in to a live stream, while poor production quality is apt to drive more than half away:

• 64% report being more likely to watch live events online if the stream is not delayed from the broadcast (Source: Limelight).
• More than 50% of live streaming viewers leave a low-quality stream in 90 seconds or less (Source: Limelight).

Social media live streaming continues to grow

Live streaming on social media continues to be an effective tool for individuals and brands looking to reach and connect with audiences in a meaningful way:

• In 2020, LinkedIn Live reported 158% more popularity, seven times more reactions, and 24 times more comments on live video over VOD content (Source: LinkedIn).
• Facebook Live is the most commonly listed platform for live video consumption (Source: Influencer Marketing Hub)
• In 2020, one in every five Facebook videos was a live stream, and people watched them three times longer than pre-recorded content (Source: Facebook IQ).
• According to a 2020 study, 70% of users preferred YouTube Live over other live social media platforms (Source: Vimeo).

Is live streaming worthwhile in 2022?

Bottom line: live streaming is a powerful tool for marketers, and there are plenty of reasons your business should consider live streaming.

Live video is a dynamic, fast-growing industry that presents tremendous opportunities to businesses of all sizes. We hope you find these live streaming statistics helping in creating your own live video strategy.

Looking for more inspiration? There are plenty of examples of brands using live streaming effectively to increase brand awareness and build trust with their audience.

What to consider when choosing streaming software

With so many options available, making a decision can feel intimidating. Before we dive too deep into the software options, here are the key considerations to keep in mind when picking streaming software.

Feature set

First, decide which features you absolutely need and which you can do without. Then, check to see whether your software of choice answers these requirements. Key questions include:

• What are your minimum and maximum resolution and frame rate requirements?
• Will you be streaming to multiple destinations at once (i.e., multistreaming)?
• Are you planning to add on-screen guests to your live stream?
• How “professional” do you want your production to look and feel? Will simply including your brand colors and a logo in the corner suffice, or do you need animated graphics and fancy transitions?

Budget

If you are willing to invest in streaming software, be sure to consider the following questions to avoid overspending:

• What is your monthly or annual budget for live streaming?
• Are you planning to go live frequently, or just need something for a one-off stream? (If it’s the latter, a monthly billed plan rather than an annually billed one is likely the better way to go.)

Go through each premium tier offering and pick the one with the features you’ll actually use. Don’t feel pressured to purchase the top tier; you can always upgrade later if necessary.

Customer support

How comfortable are you troubleshooting issues on your own versus relying on tech support? If having access to support is essential to you, consider the company’s reputation when it comes to helping customers. Keep in mind that open-source software like OBS doesn’t offer centralized support at all.

Your tech production expertise

How knowledgeable are you (or whoever will be the operator) about streaming? For example, beginners should try more intuitive streaming tools like Lightstream or Restream, while broadcasters with more experience should be considering more advanced tools like Wirecast or vMix.

What is the best streaming software in 2022?

We looked at the various options available, examining the popularity, software stability, price points, and feature sets of each streaming software. Based on that research, here is the best streaming software in 2022:

• OBS
• Streamlabs
• XSplit Broadcaster
• Lightstream
• Restream
• Streamyard
• Wirecast
• vMix

How to get the most out of your streaming software

Without proper technical preparation, even the best streaming software will only get you so far. Here are a few other technical considerations to keep in mind.

Network bandwidth

Always remember to test your network’s upload bandwidth. No matter how great your streaming software is, your stream will be destined to fail if your Internet connection isn’t up to par. A good rule of thumb is that your optimal bandwidth for streaming should be at least 1.5 times greater than the streaming bitrate.

Connecting video sources

To connect your camera or any other video source to your streaming computer, you will likely need a capture card. For easy and reliable SDI and HDMI video capture, check out our line of AV.io capture cards.

Streaming software system requirements

Consider each streaming software’s minimum system requirements. Each streaming app should have a list of these available on their website. Additionally, think about whether your streaming machine will be sharing CPU resources with other processes (e.g., backchannel chat messenger, browser, email). These other apps will be drawing processing power away from encoding, which is a resource-intensive process on its own. To lower the chance of stream failure, consider setting up a machine dedicated solely to live streaming.

For added reliability, consider using dedicated streaming hardware for your productions. Hardware encoders like Pearl Nano, Pearl Mini, and Pearl-2 are purpose-built for live video streaming and recording. They are rigorously tested to ensure they deliver reliable streaming 24 hours a day, seven days a week.