Instagram has introduced a new restriction that limits access to its Live Broadcast feature to users who have at least 1,000 followers and a public profile.
The change, currently active in India, prevents smaller creators and users with private accounts from going live, impacting their ability to connect with followers in real time.
According to Instagram’s Help Centre, only users who meet the 1,000-follower threshold and have a public profile can now initiate live streams. The platform has not issued any formal statement or explanation regarding the policy update. The rule applies to both Android and iOS devices.
This move has sparked concerns, particularly among emerging content creators and small businesses that rely on live interactions to engage with their audiences and grow their following.
Many influencers have built their presence by consistently going live and interacting with followers, and this restriction could now pose a significant hurdle.
"This restriction virtually disallows people who are either not famous or who create content on Instagram from making a live video or interacting in real-time with their friends and other followers."
The update follows Instagram’s previous changes to teen account settings. As per the existing policy, users under 16 with Teen Accounts cannot access the Live feature unless they receive parental or guardian permission. Teenagers aged 16 and above can enable the option manually if they choose to.
“The Instagram Live broadcast feature is disabled by default for Teen Account users. Teenagers under 16 need their parents’ permission.”
The parent company, Meta, recently announced new safety tools for teenagers, including enhanced messaging safeguards. Teen users will now be shown when someone joined the platform and receive safety tips when interacting with unfamiliar contacts.
While these measures aim to improve safety, the lack of transparency around the new Live access threshold has left many users questioning the platform's direction.