Facebook has recently announced a major change to its live video storage policy. As of now, all live videos on the platform will be automatically deleted after 30 days. This update has significant implications for Cambodian businesses, content creators, and digital marketers who rely on Facebook Live for engagement and customer interaction.
What’s Changing?
- 30-Day Limit on Live Videos: All newly created live videos can be replayed, downloaded, or shared for up to 30 days. After this period, they will be automatically deleted.
- Older Live Videos Will Be Removed: Any previously recorded live videos that are more than 30 days old will also be deleted in phases over the coming months.
- New Download & Transfer Tools: Facebook now provides tools to help users download or transfer their live videos to platforms like Dropbox or Google Drive.
- Convert Live Videos to Reels: Users can clip highlights from live videos and repurpose them as Facebook Reels, which will not be deleted after 30 days.
Why Is Facebook Implementing This Change?
Facebook states that most views on live videos happen within the first few weeks, making long-term storage unnecessary for many users. This update also aligns with industry standards and encourages users to manage their content more actively.
What This Means for Cambodian Businesses & Content Creators
Facebook Live has been a key tool for businesses in Cambodia—especially SMEs, e-commerce sellers, and digital marketers—to engage with their audiences. With this new change, businesses must rethink their live video strategies. Here’s how:
1. Download & Store Important Live Videos
Businesses should proactively download any important live streams before the 30-day deadline. Facebook provides tools to download single videos or bulk download multiple videos via the Activity Log.
2. Transfer Videos to Cloud Storage
Facebook allows users to transfer live videos directly to cloud storage platforms like Google Drive and Dropbox. This ensures that businesses can keep their content accessible without relying on Facebook’s storage.
3. Repurpose Live Video Content
To make the most out of live videos before they expire, businesses can:
- Convert key moments into Reels.
- Edit and repost valuable sections as new content.
- Share highlights across multiple social media channels like Instagram and YouTube.
4. Plan More Frequent Live Sessions
With live videos no longer available indefinitely, businesses should consider increasing the frequency of their live broadcasts to maintain engagement and brand visibility.
5. Leverage Third-Party Streaming Tools
To avoid losing valuable content, businesses can use third-party live streaming software that records and stores live videos independently of Facebook.
Adapting to the Change: Next Steps for Cambodian Businesses
- Review your existing live videos: Download and store important past broadcasts before Facebook removes them.
- Adjust your content strategy: Shift focus to short-form videos like Reels and Stories that remain on the platform.
- Train your team: Educate staff on how to efficiently manage and repurpose live video content.
- Explore alternative platforms: Consider using YouTube Live, Instagram Live, or TikTok Live for long-term content storage.
Final Thoughts
While this new policy presents challenges, it also encourages businesses to be more strategic in their content creation. Cambodian businesses and content creators who adapt quickly can continue to maximize their reach and engagement on Facebook. By leveraging new tools and repurposing content effectively, they can stay ahead in the evolving digital landscape.
For more details on saving or transferring your live videos, visit Facebook’s Help Center.