YouTube says it wants live content to be easy and accessible, hence they’re looking to boost interactivity between creators and audiences.

New ‘ultra-low latency’ option

When a producer sets up a live stream, they can adjust live streaming latency settings. 

Lower latency means less read-ahead. Ultra-low latency means ‘near real time interaction with minimal buffering’, but increases the chances of pauses for buffering.

In a new stream, it can be tweaked via Edit > Advanced Settings > Stream Options > Stream Optimisations.

iOS app integrations

YouTube live streaming is now also available from a wider range of apps available on iOS devices.

You’ll be able to stream from any app that supports Apple’s ReplayKit. Google’s first examples include the ability to live stream painting from Procreate, or game action from Asphalt 8 or Vainglory.

Where ReplayKit is in action, YouTube Live can also handle front-facing camera feeds and microphone so the host can have their voice heard.

Chat mod tools

Inline moderation, message filtering and shared hidden user lists are all now in YouTube Live. Producers will appreciate their potential impact on live chat messages, as they do on comments.

With Google’s resources, YouTube Live is bound to remain a contender in the streaming stakes, but do you reckon it’s got a chance at the top spot?

Copy Transmission is a Melbourne-based agency :: Better Brands. Loud & Clear.