Starting February 19, 2025, Meta has implemented a new policy for Facebook Live broadcasts, limiting their storage duration to 30 days. Previously, live videos were stored indefinitely, but this change aims to reduce storage costs and align with user engagement trends, as most live video views occur within the first few weeks of broadcasting.
Table of Contents
Key Details of the Policy Change
Automatic Deletion After 30 Days
All new Facebook Live videos will be removed from the platform 30 days after their broadcast date. This includes existing live videos older than 30 days, which will be deleted gradually over the coming months.
User Notifications
Users will receive notifications via email and in-app alerts before any video is deleted. Once notified, they will have 90 days to take action.
Options for Users
- Download Videos: Users can save their live videos individually or in bulk to their devices.
- Transfer to Cloud Storage: Videos can be transferred to linked cloud storage providers like Google Drive or Dropbox.
- Convert to Reels: Live videos can be repurposed into shorter clips for continued visibility on Facebook.
Deletion Deferral
Users can defer deletion for up to six months if additional time is needed to manage their content1.
Implications
This policy shift reflects Meta’s focus on optimizing storage efficiency and encouraging timely content management. It aligns Facebook’s practices with industry standards, as platforms like Twitch and YouTube already have defined retention policies for live content. Content creators and businesses using Facebook Live should plan ahead to save or repurpose their videos before deletion occurs.