If you use Facebook Live to connect with your audience, there’s an important update you should be aware of. Starting February 19, 2025, Facebook will be changing how long live videos remain accessible on the platform. Here’s what this means for you and how you can manage your past and future live videos.
What’s Changing?
Previously, live videos on Facebook were stored indefinitely. However, moving forward, any new live broadcasts will only be available for 30 days after they air. After that period, they will be automatically removed from the platform.
Additionally, all existing live videos that are older than 30 days will also be deleted. Facebook will notify users via email and in-app notifications before their archival live videos are removed, providing a 90-day window to download or transfer them elsewhere.
This policy also applies to Facebook Groups. If you host live videos in a group, they will also be subject to the 30-day limit and automatic removal. Be sure to download or transfer them before they disappear.
Why the Change?
Facebook is aligning its storage policies with industry standards and focusing on optimizing the live video experience. Since most live video engagement happens in the first few weeks, the platform is shifting its approach to ensure the best performance and accessibility for users.
Why This Highlights the Importance of Your Own Platform
This is exactly why I advocate for housing your most important content—like videos and other valuable resources—on a platform outside of social media. Relying solely on Facebook means you risk losing access to content that you’ve worked hard to create. Your website is the one place you have complete control over, and having an exclusive community area or digital library ensures your videos stay organized and available to your audience on your terms.
How to Save Your Live Videos
To help users keep their valuable content, Facebook is introducing new tools for downloading or transferring live videos. Here’s how you can take action:
1. Download Individual Videos
- Go to the Videos tab on your profile or Page.
- Find the live video you want to save.
- Open the video in full-screen mode, click the […] menu, and select “Download video.”
Alternatively, you can download videos through your Activity Log by selecting “Your live videos” and choosing a date range.
2. Bulk Download for Multiple Videos
- Click on the notification from Facebook about video downloads.
- Select “Download live videos” and choose a storage location.
- Set a date range and tap “Create File.”
3. Transfer Videos to Cloud Storage
- Click the notification about video downloads.
- Select “Transfer live videos.”
- Choose a cloud storage provider like Dropbox or Google Drive and confirm the transfer.
4. Convert Live Videos to Reels
If you want to preserve key moments from your live broadcasts, you can clip highlights and share them as Facebook Reels. This allows your best moments to remain on your page beyond the 30-day limit, keeping your content accessible to your audience.
Need More Time? Postpone the Deletion
For those who need extra time to manage their videos, Facebook is offering a six-month extension before final deletion occurs. If you don’t take action by the end of this period, your old live videos will be permanently removed.
Stay Informed
Make sure to check your notifications and emails from Facebook so you don’t lose important live videos. For more details and step-by-step guides, visit the Facebook Help Center. Read the Facebook announcement here.
This update is a significant shift for Facebook Live users, but it serves as a reminder of why having your own website and digital space is crucial. Don’t wait until your content disappears—start securing and organizing your videos today!
Need help getting your website or member area set up, book a consultation with me HERE.
