Twitter announced it will display live streams more prominently, bumping them to the top of users’ timelines.
This change only applies to followed accounts, so users won’t suddenly start seeing live streams from accounts they don’t follow.
While live streams can be rewatched after the fact, it sounds like they will only appear at the top of the timeline when the account is live at that very moment.
Twitter’s announcement reads:
“We’re making it easier to find and watch live broadcasts. Now, when accounts you follow go live, the stream will appear right at the top of your timeline.
Catch breaking news, your favorite personalities, and can’t-miss sports moments. Rolling out now on iOS and Android.”
Bumping live streams to the top of the timeline creates an opportunity to significantly boost viewership.
That alone may encourage more brands and publishers to utilize live streams knowing that they’ll immediately be put in front of more people.
I can only assume this update applies to both regular live streams and audio-only live broadcasts, though Twitter did not specify in its announcement.
Last week Twitter rolled out the ability for users to stream audio-only live broadcasts on mobile.
Only iOS users can broadcast audio streams for the time being, but all Twitter users are able to listen in.
This update isn’t at all dissimilar to how Instagram and Facebook treat live streams. So it shouldn’t feel too obtrusive to people who are regular users of other platforms.
Due to the real-time nature of Twitter, I’d wager that users will welcome the idea live streams showing up at the top of the timeline.
