Instagram has announced an upcoming tool called Live Producer which will let users live stream content through their desktops – much like platforms with similar services such as Twitch, YouTube, and fellow Meta-owned social media network Facebook. Prior to this, this ability was exclusively available on smartphones, though its features are limited to what is only offered via the platform‘s mobile app.
With Live Producer, Instagram says that you’ll be able to utilise streaming software on desktop such as OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) and Streamlabs. Moreover, live streaming via desktop would entail for new ways on how creators are able to present content to their audience. This includes the use of multi-camera setups, external microphones, as well as allowing you to customise your live streams with your own graphics for title cards, notifications and so on.
According to its blog post, the platform recommends videos to be set to an aspect ratio of 9 x 16, resolution of 720p (720 x 1280), 30 frames per second, and a bitrate range of 2,250 to 6,000 Kbps. As you may have noticed, the mentioned video format is intended to also be mobile-friendly, though you are allowed to use landscape aspect ratio or higher frames if you so wish. Meanwhile, audio is recommended to feature a sample rate of 44.1 kHz, with stereo channel layout and bit rate of up to 256 Kbps.
To use Live Producer, click on the Add Post button on the desktop version of Instagram and then select “Live” from the dropdown menu. On the Go Live screen, enter a title for your stream, select your audience, and click Next. Upon then, you’ll be provided with a unique URL and a stream key that you’re required to input in the streaming software of your choice.
Interestingly, Instagram had taken down the announcement of the new feature (shown above) on its official blog not long after it was published. According to TechCrunch, the Meta-owned company says Live Producer is still in its testing phase and is not fully rolled out yet, therefore indicating that the post may have been published earlier than intended. The tool’s availability to all users has yet to be confirmed at this time.
(Source: Instagram [official blog] / TechCrunch)
