What Is Periscope On Twitter? A Detailed Guide

by Jhon Lennon 47 views

Hey guys! Ever wondered what Periscope was all about back in the day when Twitter was buzzing with it? Let's dive into what Periscope Twitter was, its features, and how it impacted the world of social media. Even though Periscope is no longer available as a standalone app, understanding its history and influence is super important for anyone interested in the evolution of live streaming and social media.

What Was Periscope?

Periscope was a live video streaming app acquired by Twitter in 2015. It allowed users to broadcast live videos to their followers, who could then interact with the broadcaster in real-time through comments and hearts. Think of it as the OG of live streaming on social media, setting the stage for many features we see today on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and, of course, Twitter itself.

Key Features of Periscope

  • Live Broadcasting: The core function of Periscope was the ability to start a live video stream with just a tap. Users could broadcast anything from their daily commute to special events, sharing their experiences with the world as they happened.
  • Real-Time Interaction: Viewers could send comments and hearts (likes) to the broadcaster in real-time. This created a dynamic and engaging experience, allowing for immediate feedback and interaction.
  • Replays: After a live broadcast ended, the video could be saved and replayed for up to 24 hours, allowing people who missed the live stream to catch up later. This feature was crucial for extending the reach of the content.
  • Maps: Periscope included a map feature that allowed users to discover live broadcasts happening around the world. This fostered a sense of global community and allowed people to explore different cultures and events from the comfort of their homes.
  • Private Broadcasts: Users could also create private broadcasts, sharing their live videos only with selected followers. This was great for more intimate and personal sharing, like family updates or private events.

Why Periscope Mattered

Periscope revolutionized how people consumed and shared content on social media. It brought a sense of immediacy and authenticity that was previously missing. Here’s why it was such a big deal:

  • Real-Time Connection: Periscope allowed for a real-time connection between broadcasters and viewers, making interactions feel more personal and engaging than traditional social media posts.
  • Democratization of Broadcasting: Anyone with a smartphone could become a broadcaster, breaking down the barriers to entry that traditional media outlets presented. This empowered individuals to share their stories and perspectives with the world.
  • Influence on Social Media: Periscope paved the way for live video features on other major social media platforms. Its success demonstrated the demand for live, interactive content, influencing the development of features like Facebook Live, Instagram Live, and Twitter Live.

The Rise and Fall of Periscope

Periscope enjoyed a meteoric rise in popularity, quickly gaining millions of users and becoming a cultural phenomenon. However, its success was relatively short-lived. Several factors contributed to its decline:

Integration with Twitter

While being acquired by Twitter initially seemed like a boon, the integration of live video features directly into the Twitter app eventually made Periscope redundant. Users no longer needed a separate app to broadcast live videos; they could do it directly from Twitter.

Competition from Other Platforms

As other social media platforms launched their own live video features, Periscope faced increasing competition. Platforms like Facebook and Instagram had larger user bases and offered more comprehensive features, making it difficult for Periscope to maintain its market share.

Content Moderation Challenges

Like many social media platforms, Periscope struggled with content moderation. The live nature of the broadcasts made it challenging to monitor and remove inappropriate content, leading to concerns about safety and user experience.

Eventual Shutdown

In December 2020, Twitter announced that Periscope would be shut down in March 2021. The company cited declining usage and the high costs of maintaining the app as the primary reasons for the shutdown. While Periscope is no longer available, its legacy lives on in the live video features of other social media platforms.

The Impact of Periscope on Social Media

Even though Periscope is no longer around, its impact on social media is undeniable. It changed the way people interact online and paved the way for the live video features we use every day.

Popularization of Live Video

Periscope popularized live video as a form of social media content. It showed that people were interested in watching and interacting with live broadcasts, leading other platforms to invest in their own live video capabilities.

Influence on Content Creators

Periscope empowered a new generation of content creators. It allowed anyone with a smartphone to become a broadcaster, sharing their stories and perspectives with the world. Many of today's popular influencers got their start on Periscope.

Shaping User Expectations

Periscope shaped user expectations for social media. It showed that people wanted real-time, interactive experiences. This influenced the development of other social media features, such as live Q&A sessions, polls, and interactive stickers.

Periscope vs. Twitter Live: What’s the Difference?

So, what exactly is the difference between Periscope and Twitter Live, especially since Periscope was integrated into Twitter? Let’s break it down.

Periscope: The Standalone App

Periscope was initially a standalone app that focused exclusively on live video streaming. It had its own user base and community, separate from Twitter. Users could create Periscope accounts and follow other Periscope users, even if they weren't connected on Twitter.

Twitter Live: Integrated Feature

Twitter Live, on the other hand, is a feature integrated directly into the Twitter app. It allows users to broadcast live videos directly from their Twitter accounts. This means that users can leverage their existing Twitter followers to reach a wider audience.

Key Differences

  • Platform: Periscope was a standalone app, while Twitter Live is a feature within the Twitter app.
  • User Base: Periscope had its own user base, while Twitter Live leverages the existing Twitter user base.
  • Integration: Twitter Live is tightly integrated with other Twitter features, such as hashtags and trends, making it easier to discover and promote live videos.

How to Use Twitter Live Today

Even though Periscope is gone, the spirit of live streaming lives on through Twitter Live. Here’s how you can use it today:

Starting a Live Broadcast

  1. Open Twitter: Open the Twitter app on your smartphone.
  2. Compose a Tweet: Tap the compose button to start a new tweet.
  3. Select Live: Look for the live video icon (it looks like a camera) and tap it.
  4. Go Live: Add a description to your broadcast and tap the “Go Live” button.

Engaging with Viewers

  • Respond to Comments: Pay attention to the comments and questions from your viewers and respond to them in real-time.
  • Use Hashtags: Use relevant hashtags to make your broadcast more discoverable.
  • Promote Your Broadcast: Share your broadcast on other social media platforms to reach a wider audience.

Tips for a Successful Twitter Live Broadcast

  • Plan Ahead: Before you go live, plan what you want to talk about and create an outline.
  • Promote in Advance: Let your followers know when you’re planning to go live so they can tune in.
  • Engage with Viewers: Make your broadcast interactive by asking questions and responding to comments.
  • Be Authentic: Be yourself and let your personality shine through.

The Future of Live Streaming on Social Media

Live streaming is here to stay. While Periscope may be gone, its legacy lives on in the live video features of other social media platforms. As technology evolves, we can expect to see even more innovative ways to connect and share experiences in real-time.

Augmented Reality (AR)

AR technology is already being integrated into live video streams, allowing for more immersive and interactive experiences. Imagine being able to try on clothes virtually during a live shopping stream or explore a virtual world with friends during a live gaming session.

Virtual Reality (VR)

VR technology takes live streaming to the next level, allowing viewers to feel like they are actually there in person. Imagine attending a live concert or sporting event from the comfort of your own home, with a 360-degree view of the action.

Interactive Features

We can expect to see even more interactive features added to live video streams, such as polls, quizzes, and games. These features will make live broadcasts more engaging and entertaining for viewers.

Conclusion

So, there you have it! Periscope Twitter was a game-changer in the world of social media. While it may be gone, its impact is still felt today. It paved the way for the live video features we use every day and influenced the way we connect and share experiences online. Whether you're a seasoned social media pro or just getting started, understanding the history of Periscope is essential for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of online communication. Keep exploring, keep creating, and keep connecting!