Users urged to download or transfer live-streamed videos to avoid permanent loss as Facebook updates its content storage practices.
Meta Platforms Inc. has announced a new policy regarding the management of certain user-generated content on
Facebook, particularly concerning live-streamed videos.
The company stated that it will begin removing live videos that have been recorded and stored on its servers after 30 days, in an effort to manage the vast amounts of data it holds.
This decision follows the observation that live videos tend to lose viewership not long after their initial broadcast.
Users will be notified via email and in-app notifications prior to the deletion of their stored live videos, allowing them an opportunity to save their content.
In addition to the new policy for future live videos,
Facebook will also start removing older stored live videos, with users being notified before these are deleted after a 90-day notice period.
Meta says the changes are aimed at aligning its video storage policies with industry standards.
The company plans to implement the deletion of content in phases rather than all at once, ensuring users are kept informed about which videos are set to be removed.
To help users preserve their memories, Meta has provided three options for those wishing to keep their live videos: they can download the videos to their personal devices, transfer them to cloud storage, or convert them into Reels.
However, it is important to note that converting videos to Reels comes with a limitation of 90 seconds.
Meta has indicated that it will be launching new tools to assist users in transferring their video content as part of this policy update.
The company encourages users with live-streamed videos to take action if they wish to retain their content once it is removed from the platform.