Facebook to Auto-Delete Live Videos After 30 Days

In a significant policy shift, Facebook has announced that all live videos will now be automatically deleted 30 days after their broadcast. This change, effective February 19, 2025, aligns with industry standards and reflects user engagement trends, as most live video views occur within the initial weeks of broadcasting.

Impact on Existing and Future Content

The new policy affects both existing and future live videos. Live videos older than 30 days will be removed in phases over the coming months. Users will receive notifications via email and within the app before their content is deleted, providing a 90-day window to download or transfer their videos. For new live broadcasts, the 30-day retention period begins immediately after the broadcast ends.

Tools for Downloading and Preserving Content

To assist users in preserving their live videos, Facebook has introduced several tools:

• Single Video Download: Users can download individual live videos directly from their profile or page by selecting the desired video, opening it in full-screen mode, and choosing the "Download video" option.
• Bulk Download: For multiple videos, users can access the "Your live videos" section in their Activity Log, select a date range, and request a downloadable archive of all relevant videos.
• Cloud Transfer: Facebook offers the option to transfer videos directly to cloud storage services like Dropbox or Google Drive, facilitating seamless content preservation without occupying local storage space.

Conversion to Reels and Extended Deletion Postponement

Recognizing the value of certain live video moments, Facebook allows users to convert segments of their live broadcasts into Reels. These shorter clips can remain on the user's profile beyond the 30-day limit, ensuring that key highlights continue to engage audiences. Additionally, if users require more time to manage their content, they can request a postponement of deletion for up to six months, providing ample opportunity to archive or repurpose their videos.

Implications for Marketers and Content Creators

This policy change necessitates that marketers and content creators adjust their strategies regarding live content on Facebook. To maximize the impact of live videos within the 30-day window, consider the following best practices:

• Plan and Promote Live Sessions: Announce upcoming live events in advance through various channels to build anticipation and ensure a larger live audience.
• Engage Viewers During Broadcasts: Interact with your audience in real-time by addressing comments and questions, fostering a sense of community and increasing viewer retention.
• Repurpose Content: After the live session, edit and share highlights or key takeaways as standalone videos or Reels to extend the content's lifespan and reach.
• Archive Important Content Promptly: Utilize Facebook's download or transfer tools immediately after broadcasting to ensure valuable content is preserved before the 30-day expiration.

Comparisons with Other Platforms

Facebook's updated policy brings its live video storage practices closer to those of other platforms. For instance, Twitch retains past broadcasts for 14 days for standard users and up to 60 days for partners and subscribers. YouTube, on the other hand, archives live streams indefinitely, allowing content creators to maintain a permanent repository of their live content.

Final Thoughts

Facebook's 30-day retention policy for live videos reflects a strategic shift to optimize storage and align with user engagement patterns. While this change requires users to be more proactive in managing their live content, the new tools and options provided by Facebook facilitate efficient content preservation and repurposing. Marketers and content creators should adapt their strategies accordingly to continue leveraging Facebook Live as a dynamic platform for audience engagement.