Facebook. ARCHIVE

Facebook has announced a significant policy change regarding its live videos, implementing an automatic deletion system that will remove live broadcasts 30 days after they are posted. This update, which takes effect on February 19, marks a departure from the previous policy that allowed live videos to remain on the platform indefinitely unless manually deleted by the user. According to Facebook, any existing live video older than 30 days will also be subject to removal. Users will be notified in advance through email and in-app pop-ups before their older live videos are deleted. The platform stated that the removal process will occur gradually over the coming months to ensure users have ample time to take action. To help users retain their content, Facebook is providing several options. Users will have 90 days to either download their live videos to their devices or transfer them to cloud storage services such as Google Drive or Dropbox. Additionally, Facebook is introducing a new feature that allows users to convert live videos into Reels, enabling them to keep their content visible on their profiles in a different format. Meta, Facebook’s parent company, is also rolling out new tools to facilitate video downloads. Users can manually download individual live videos by navigating to the “Videos” or “Live” tab on their profile or Page and selecting the “Download video” option. Those looking to save multiple videos at once can utilize the “Activity Log” or a bulk download feature, which enables them to select a date range and save videos directly to their device or computer. In a post, Facebook confirmed the policy change, stating, “Beginning on February 19th, any new live broadcast videos can be replayed, downloaded, or shared from your Facebook Pages or profiles for 30 days, after which they will automatically be removed from Facebook. Previously, these videos were stored indefinitely.” Industry experts suggest that Meta’s decision aligns with its strategy to boost its short-form video business, particularly as its competitor TikTok faces regulatory challenges in key markets such as the United States. By encouraging users to focus on short-form content like Reels instead of long-form live streams, Facebook aims to stay competitive in the evolving social media landscape. This move is particularly noteworthy given Facebook’s vast user base. As of 2025, the platform boasts 3.07 billion monthly active users and 2.11 billion daily active users, meaning that any change in its content policies has a wide-reaching impact. The decision also underscores Meta’s ongoing efforts to refine its video strategy. With the rise of short-form content dominating the digital space, Facebook appears to be shifting resources towards formats that drive higher engagement and align with modern viewing preferences. Users who regularly use Facebook Live for events, discussions, and content creation are advised to review their saved videos and take necessary steps to download or transfer them before the deletion process begins. The platform’s new tools are designed to make this transition smoother, but proactive action is recommended. Amid the February 19 deadline, Facebook is expected to provide further guidance on the transition. Users are encouraged to explore alternative content strategies, including leveraging Reels, to maintain their presence on the platform amid these policy changes. ICA/Expat Media
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