Ashutosh Singh

On February 19, 2025, Facebook announced a significant change to its live video storage policy: all live broadcasts will now be available for only 30 days before automatic deletion. This policy shift affects both new and existing live videos, prompting users to take action to preserve their content.

Understanding the Policy Change

Historically, Facebook stored live videos indefinitely, allowing users to access and share their broadcasts without time constraints. However, the platform’s data indicates that “most live video views occur within the first few weeks of broadcasting.” To optimize storage and align with industry standards, Facebook has decided to implement a 30-day retention period for live videos. citeturn0search1

Implications for Users

This change has immediate implications for content creators, businesses, and individuals who utilize Facebook Live for various purposes:

• Content Creators and Influencers: Creators who rely on live videos to engage with their audience must now adjust their content strategies. The 30-day limit necessitates timely action to preserve valuable broadcasts.
• Businesses and Brands: Companies using Facebook Live for product launches, tutorials, or customer engagement need to implement processes to download and archive their live sessions promptly.
• Personal Users: Individuals sharing personal milestones or events via live broadcasts should be aware that these videos will no longer be permanently accessible on the platform.

Steps to Preserve Your Live Videos

To assist users in managing this transition, Facebook has introduced several tools and options:

1. Single Video Download:
• Navigate to your profile or Page.
• Access the “Videos” or “Live” tab.
• Select the desired video.
• Click on the three-dot menu and choose “Download video.”
2. Bulk Download:
• Upon receiving a deletion notification, click on it to enter the download interface.
• Select “Download live videos.”
• Specify the date range and destination for the download.
• Click “Create File” to initiate the process.
3. Transfer to Cloud Storage:
• From the download interface, choose “Transfer live videos.”
• Select your preferred cloud service (e.g., Dropbox, Google Drive).
• Authenticate and authorize the transfer.
• Initiate the transfer to back up your videos externally.
4. Convert to Reels:
• For users wishing to keep highlights of their live videos on their profiles, Facebook offers the option to convert segments into Reels. However, Reels have a 90-second duration limit, so this is suitable for short clips rather than full broadcasts.
5. Postpone Deletion:
• If immediate downloading or transferring isn’t feasible, users can request a postponement of the deletion: 
• Access the deletion notification.
• Click “Learn More.”
• Select “Postpone the deletion.”
• Confirm to extend the retention period by an additional six months.

It’s crucial to note that once the extended period lapses without action, the videos will be permanently deleted and unrecoverable. citeturn0search1

Rationale Behind the Change

Facebook’s decision is influenced by several factors:

• User Engagement Patterns: The platform observed that live videos receive the majority of their views shortly after broadcasting. Maintaining indefinite storage for content with diminishing engagement is resource-intensive.
• Storage Optimization: By limiting the retention period, Facebook aims to manage storage resources more efficiently, ensuring the platform remains responsive and sustainable.
• Alignment with Industry Standards: Many social media platforms implement time-bound content policies. Facebook’s update brings its practices in line with broader industry norms.

Community Feedback and Concerns

The announcement has elicited varied reactions from the Facebook community:

• Positive Reception: Some users appreciate the change, viewing it as an opportunity to declutter their profiles and focus on current content.
• Concerns Raised: Others express apprehension, particularly those who use live videos for archival purposes or as a repository of significant events. The automatic deletion policy necessitates proactive measures to preserve important content.

Best Practices Moving Forward

To adapt to this policy change, users are encouraged to:

• Regularly Monitor Notifications: Stay vigilant for alerts regarding upcoming deletions to ensure timely action.
• Establish a Backup Routine: Incorporate regular downloads or transfers of live videos into your content management workflow.
• Utilize External Storage Solutions: Consider backing up important videos to external hard drives or cloud services to ensure long-term preservation.
• Leverage Reels for Highlights: For moments that can be encapsulated in short clips, converting live videos into Reels can keep content accessible on your profile.