Substack Enables Livestreaming for All Publishers

In a significant update, Substack, the newsletter platform, announced that it will now offer livestreaming capabilities to all its publishers. Initially tested in the fall, this new feature is designed to allow creators to interact more dynamically with their audiences and collaborate with fellow publishers.

Stepping in with Other Platforms

The addition of livestreaming highlights Substack's move to align itself with other major platforms such as Instagram and TikTok, which already offer live video functionalities. The timing of this development is noteworthy given the potential ban on TikTok in the United States, which could create a void for creators seeking alternative ways to engage with their followers.

How to Use the Livestream Feature

To utilize the new live video feature, users must have at least 10 free subscribers within the app. Initiating a live video involves clicking the orange plus button on the homepage, selecting “Live,” and assigning a title to the session. Users can invite guests to join or simply hit the "Go live" button to start broadcasting.

Post-Livestream Options

After concluding a livestream, publishers are provided with a complete recording which they can upload as a post on Notes, thus allowing subscribers who missed the live session to catch up. Furthermore, Substack offers AI-generated clips to facilitate social media sharing, enhancing the reach of the content.

Substack's Evolving Platform

Originally focused solely on newsletters, Substack has broadened its platform over recent years to include various video supports. This evolution began with options for video uploads and recording directly in posts and expanded to include video functionalities in its Chat and Notes features.

Initial Trials and Expansion

Substack's venture into live video began in September, targeting its top-performing creators—specifically those with over 100 paying subscribers—before rolling out the feature to the wider public.