Facebook is cracking down on Pages publishing Live videos that aren’t, exactly, what you’d call engaging.

Moving pictures

Facebook has updated its Live API Platform Policy to prohibit the use of static or looping images, and live-stream polls, in Live broadcasts.

The update is a response to user feedback, and the proclivity of publishers using countdowns to promote upcoming Live streams.

Indeed, half of the 10 top Live videos of 2016 were either countdowns or polls on a static background.

Consider yourself warned

Those flouting Facebook’s new rules will see their video plunged into the visibility abyss, while repeated offenders could be restricted, or even banned, from using Live.

Facebook has poured much gold into Live. And while the format is popular with users, holding videos to certain levels of quality means Live won’t go the way of the Poke.

Do you use Facebook Live in your marketing mix? Let us know in the Comments.