Live streaming has transformed the TikTok experience. Every day, millions of users broadcast real-time videos to engage with audiences in an authentic, raw way that resonates. For the uninitiated, diving into the world of TikTok live video can be confusing. How do you find popular streams? How do you access broadcasts from people you follow?
In this comprehensive guide, we‘ll answer all those questions and more. You‘ll learn insider tips and tricks for discovering streams you love while unlocking all the benefits of TikTok‘s hottest feature. Let‘s get watching!
Why TikTok Live Video Blew Up
Since launching in 2016, TikTok has redefined what social media means for young audiences. But even amidst the app‘s meteoric rise, live streaming stands out as a breakout format. Consider that:
- Total live hours watched grew 275% from Q1 2020 to Q1 20211
- The average TikTok live video attracts 5.3x more comments per view than non-live videos2
- Top live streams drive tens of thousands of sent gifts – virtual presents converted from real money3
What makes live video stand out isn‘t just popularity, but an unfiltered look into creators‘ lives. The intimate, raw connections forged through real-time engagement simply can‘t be matched by polished VOD content.
For those reasons, livestreams captivate huge audiences. Top personalities like Spencer X (51M followers) and Charli D‘Amelio (146M followers) draw hundreds of thousands of viewers when they go live. Even smaller creators can build dedicated fanbases through consistent streaming.
But enough big picture discussion. Let‘s get into the step-by-step details for finding those must-see broadcasts on TikTok right now!
Step 1: Locate Your Inbox
The portal to live video greatness lies in your TikTok inbox. To get there:
- Open the TikTok app on your iOS or Android device
- Tap the inbox icon on the bottom navigation toolbar (see figure 1)
Figure 1: TikTok inbox icon
This opens your inbox. Now, onto the live streams!
Step 2: Select "Top LIVEs" or "Following"
Inside the inbox screen, you‘ll see two tabs for accessing live content:
Top LIVEs
This showcases the most popular live streams in your geographic region right now. It‘s perfect for sampling trending broadcasts from creators on the rise.
Following
See which of the creators you follow are currently streaming live. Get alerted the moment your favorites go on air!
Both options provide amazing live video discovery – toggle between them depending on if you want to ride the trending wave or connect with creators you already love.
Step 3: Tap Through Streams
Once you select a tab, tap any live broadcast to open the video stream. You can also scroll vertically in the feed to preview other streams.
Identify captivating personalities by the view count shown on their preview or the real-time comment fly-by. Dip into various streams to explore rising talent until you discover someone you click with!
Figure 2: Preview multiple live stream broadcasts before selecting one to watch
Pro Tip: Optimize Your Profile to Go Live
On the flip side, any TikTok user can go live themselves provided you:
- Are over 16 years old
- Have at least 1,000 followers
- Have posted at least 3 videos
Additionally, here are some quick ways to polish your presence if you want to broadcast:
- Add biography info so viewers understand your niche
- Use an eye-catching profile photo so you stand out in the live feed
- Engage heavily with your VOD content to build a loyal audience that will show up to streams
The more intriguing your overall profile, the better your live performance will be!
Live Video Dominates Watch Time
As live streaming continues to balloon, broadcasts account for 20.9% of time spent watching TikTok in 2022 – more than triple their share two years ago.5
Why TikTok Live Resonates
Beyond just infectious popularity, what drives live video mania on TikTok?
It‘s authentic. The off-the-cuff, raw nature of live fosters genuine connections between creators and community.
It‘s immediate. Viewers participate in real-time moments as they unfold instead of waiting for edited VOD clips.
It‘s interactive. TikTok live enables two-way conversations between broadcaster and audience in the comments.
Across metrics from views to gifts sent, young audiences crave the authenticity of real life. TikTok streams capture that – no filter required.
Ready to Dive into TikTok LIVEs?
Like any social phenomenon, the hype around TikTok live can seem mystifying from afar. But now you hold the keys to unlocking this exciting world of digital connection!
So open the TikTok app, tap your inbox, select a trending live or visit a favorite creator you follow. Then sit back and enjoy the show!
1https://www.businessofapps.com/data/tik-tok-statistics/
2https://www.oberlo.com/blog/tiktok-statistics
3https://blog.hootsuite.com/tiktok-stats/
4https://www.businessofapps.com/data/tik-tok-statistics/
5https://www.emarketer.com/content/tiktok-surpasses-youtube-viewing-time
