With the press of a button, you can stream your actions live to others around the globe; and whether you want to show off your dance moves, cooking skills, or share your thoughts, there are people eager to watch. Using TikTok, you can begin the process in only a few taps of your finger, but there are a few requirements before you start. Here’s how to go live on TikTok and the requirements needed before you can begin your live streaming career.
If you’re not a huge fan of TikTok, we have also compiled a list of the best TikTok alternative apps for Android and iOS — check it out for a few other great options.
Gaining TikTok live streaming
While most other social media platforms have pretty loose parameters for going live, TikTok actually requires that users hit several requirements before broadcasting. A TikTok user must have at least 1,000 followers to even see the live stream option on the platform, for example. Even after you hit 1,000 followers, it could still take several days before the live stream button appears.
One of TikTok’s broadcasting guidelines is that streamers be older than 16. The company requires that a person be at least 13 years old before making an account, but only older users can actually stream. If you’re at least 18 years old, other viewers can send virtual gifts to you while you broadcast that you can later exchange for cash. If you aren’t quite 18, you won’t be able to receive those virtual gifts, but you can enjoy all the comments and hearts.
How to go live on TikTok
After meeting all of TikTok’s requirements, then you can start actually going live. Again, if the live stream button isn’t visible on your account, double-check that you match the criteria for going live. You can follow along with the steps we’ve listed below to start your TikTok broadcast on either Android or iOS:
Step 1: Open the TikTok app.
Step 2: Touch the + button at the bottom of the screen.
Step 3: Press the Live option under the record button.
Step 4: Come up with a title for your live stream. You want to describe what your live stream will be about so you can hook viewers.
Step 5: Click Go Live to begin.
Step 6: When you finish streaming, tap the ‘X’ button to end your session.
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