Facebook Sets 30-Day Storage Limit for Live Videos

Facebook has announced a major change to its live video storage policy, introducing a 30-day retention period for all new live broadcasts.

Under this new policy, live videos will be available for replay, download, or sharing for 30 days from the date of the broadcast, after which they will be automatically deleted.

This move, which takes effect on 19 February 2025, aligns with Facebook’s strategy to optimise platform storage and improve user experience. According to the company, most live video engagements occur within the first few weeks, making long-term storage unnecessary for the majority of users.

Phased Deletion of Existing Live Videos

In addition to this policy, Facebook has announced that older live videos—those stored on the platform for more than 30 days—will be gradually deleted over the coming months. Affected users will receive notifications via email and in-app alerts before any video is removed.

To help users retain their content, Facebook has introduced several options:

Download Option – Users can manually save their live videos to their devices.

Bulk Download Feature – Those with multiple live videos can request a batch download within a specified time range.

Cloud Transfer Support – Facebook now allows direct transfers of live videos to linked cloud storage providers, such as Google Drive and Dropbox.

Also Read: Meta Ends Third-Party Fact-Checking on Facebook, Instagram

Extension & Preservation Options

For those needing extra time, Facebook has provided an option to extend storage for up to six months before permanent deletion occurs. This feature ensures that users can back up valuable content before it is lost.

Implications for Content Creators & Businesses

The new policy is expected to impact content creators, businesses, and brands that rely on Facebook Live for audience engagement. To adapt, creators may need to download and repurpose their live streams or shift to alternative storage solutions to maintain their video archives.

This update marks a shift in Facebook’s approach to live content, focusing on storage efficiency while encouraging timely content management among users.