Periscope - Free Live Video Streaming Platform [Official]
In the age of instant content and real-time connection, live streaming apps revolutionized how we share and experience the world. Among the pioneers of this wave was Periscope, a platform that brought live moments to global audiences with just a smartphone. Though no longer in the spotlight, Periscope made a lasting impact on how we view live content today.
What is Periscope?
Periscope was a live video streaming application launched in 2015 by Kayvon Beykpour and Joe Bernstein and acquired by Twitter before its public release. The core idea was simple yet powerful: allow users to broadcast live video from their phones to the world and interact with viewers in real time.
Through Periscope, users could:
- Share live videos with followers
- Receive instant feedback via comments and hearts
- Explore trending live broadcasts worldwide
- Replay streams after they ended
What Happened to Periscope?
Despite its early success and deep integration with Twitter, Periscope faced stiff competition from platforms like Facebook Live, Instagram Live, and Twitch. Over time, Twitter itself began incorporating native live streaming features, which eventually made Periscope redundant.
On March 31, 2021, Twitter officially shut down Periscope, citing declining usage and high maintenance costs. However, many of its features live on through Twitter’s own media tools and other apps that followed in Periscope’s footsteps.
Standout Features of Periscope
Periscope distinguished itself with several innovative features:
- Live Interaction: Viewers could send comments and “hearts” in real-time.
- Location Tagging: Discover broadcasts by browsing a world map of live streams.
- Replay Option: Streams could be replayed for 24 hours after ending.
- Private Broadcasting: Limit streams to select viewers for a more intimate experience.
What Does Periscope Provide?
Before its closure, Periscope provided:
- A platform for real-time content sharing
- Engagement tools for creators and influencers
- Live news coverage from everyday people
- A way for audiences to witness unfiltered moments as they happened
Even after its shutdown, Periscope’s influence remains in the way modern platforms handle live video.
How to Use Periscope?
While Periscope is no longer available, here’s how it used to work:
- Download the App (iOS or Android)
- Log in with Twitter (or create a Periscope account)
- Tap the broadcast icon to start a live stream
- Add a title and choose privacy settings
- Go live and interact with viewers in real-time
- Save or share your stream after it ended
Alternatives to Periscope
With Periscope gone, several platforms now offer similar or enhanced live streaming capabilities:
- Twitter Live
- Instagram Live
- Facebook Live
- YouTube Live
- Twitch
- TikTok Live
FAQs
Is Periscope safe to use?
When it was active, Periscope was generally safe, though like any public platform, users needed to be cautious about sharing personal information or broadcasting private locations.
Is Periscope legal?
Yes, Periscope was a legal platform. However, streaming copyrighted material or violating local laws through broadcasts was prohibited.
Do I have to pay for Periscope?
No, Periscope was free to use. Monetization came later through tools like Super Hearts for popular streamers.
Does Periscope require an account to use?
Yes, users needed a Twitter or Periscope account to broadcast or interact with content.
How to have the best experience on Periscope?
- Ensure a stable internet connection
- Use engaging titles
- Interact with your audience
- Stream in well-lit environments
- Respect the community guidelines
Is Periscope available on Periscope?
This question seems redundant or possibly mistyped. If you meant “Is Periscope still available?” – the answer is no, the app was discontinued in 2021.
Which quality of video does Periscope offer?
Periscope offered HD-quality streaming, adjusted based on the user’s internet connection to maintain smooth playback.