Instagram has quietly introduced a major update that’s sparking concern among creators: users must now have at least 1,000 followers to use the Live video feature. There was no formal announcement, no statement from Instagram’s leadership, and no prior notice for everyday users. The new policy was simply rolled out, leaving thousands of smaller creators unable to go live as they had done before.
At first glance, the change may seem minor. But it signals a deeper shift: Instagram is moving further away from being an open social network for all, and increasingly positioning itself as a platform geared towards established creators, particularly those who already have a significant following.
Historically, Instagram’s Live feature has been one of its most accessible tools. Whether you had 10 or 10,000 followers, you could livestream to your audience, share moments, or promote your work in real time. For many small creators, it was a valuable way to connect with their communities authentically and immediately. That freedom is now restricted. Users attempting to go live with fewer than 1,000 followers are greeted with a message stating they are ineligible, regardless of how active or engaged their followers may be.
The most likely reason behind this update is content moderation. Live streaming presents unique challenges for platforms: unlike pre-recorded content that can be reviewed before publication, live broadcasts happen in real-time, making it harder to prevent harmful or inappropriate material. In recent years, various platforms have faced backlash over disturbing incidents during live streams. As a result, tech companies have been under pressure to implement stricter controls.
TikTok and YouTube already impose similar requirements. TikTok requires a minimum of 1,000 followers for livestreaming, and YouTube ties access to account verification and subscriber thresholds. Instagram, owned by Meta, appears to be aligning with that broader industry trend. From a risk management standpoint, it makes sense: requiring users to “earn” livestream privileges through community growth can deter misuse.
However, this shift also affects creators who aren’t aiming to be influencers. Some are teachers offering free classes, students sharing their journeys, or small business owners conducting product demos for a tight-knit audience. They may not seek viral fame, they just want to connect. Yet under the new rules, these creators are locked out of live features simply because their follower counts fall below the threshold.
This update reflects a clear shift in Instagram’s identity: from a platform for casual social sharing to a stage reserved for those with an audience. The change raises important questions about fairness, access, and authenticity. When follower count becomes the key to unlocking features, it prioritises reach over trust, and numbers over intention.
There’s also the issue of follower manipulation. If the goal is to reduce harmful content, a 1,000-follower minimum is hardly a foolproof solution; follower counts can be inflated with fake accounts. This change may even incentivise users to buy followers just to unlock access, undermining the platform’s credibility and distorting the creative ecosystem.
For smaller creators, this may be a cue to reconsider their content strategy. If Instagram continues to restrict core features to high-performing accounts, it risks becoming a competitive arena rather than a platform for growth. Diversifying across TikTok, YouTube Shorts, or emerging platforms like Lemon8 may offer better opportunities for creators who prioritise connection over clout.
While Instagram’s update may reduce risks, it also reduces inclusivity. And in doing so, it risks alienating the very creators who helped shape the platform into what it is today.
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