How to Watch a Instagram Live: The Beginner's Handbook
Updated: Jul 17
Are you curious about how to watch a Instagram Live broadcast? This beginner's guide will walk you through everything you need to know to tune into live streams on Instagram. Whether you want to catch your favorite influencer's Q&A or see behind-the-scenes content from a brand, we've got you covered.
We provide information to help you enjoy Instagram more. We recommend checking out our other articles, such as [2024 Edition] 5 Apps for Easy White Frame Editing for Instagram!
Finding Live Broadcasts on Instagram
Instagram Live videos appear at the top of your feed, alongside Stories. Look for the "Live" badge on a profile picture to know someone is currently broadcasting live. Simply tap on their profile picture to start watching the stream in real-time. Live broadcasts from accounts you don't follow are also viewable. It's a chance to discover new creators and topics that interest you.
Interacting with Instagram Live Videos
Once you're watching a live broadcast, you can interact with the host and other viewers. Here's how:
Comments: Type your questions or reactions in the comment box at the bottom of the screen. The host may respond to your comments during the broadcast.
Hearts: Tap the screen to send hearts and show your appreciation for the live content.
Sharing: If you think your friends would enjoy the live stream, tap the paper airplane icon to share it with them via direct message.
By sending comments and hearts, you can build a deeper connection with the broadcaster. Actively participate to make the live stream more enjoyable.
Watching Live Broadcasts on Smartphone
Instagram Live can be viewed on the Instagram app for iOS (iPhone/iPad) and Android.
On smartphones, opening an Instagram Live link in a browser will launch the Instagram app.
The appeal is that as long as you have your smartphone, you can enjoy live broadcasts anytime, anywhere, even when you're out.
Watching Live Broadcasts on Desktop
While Instagram Live is primarily a mobile feature, you can also watch live streams on your desktop computer. Here's how:
Go to instagram.com and log in to your account.
Look for the "Live" badge on profile pictures in the Stories section at the top of your feed.
Click on the profile picture to watch the live broadcast. Note that you can only watch, not comment or send hearts, on the desktop version.
For those who want to enjoy live broadcasts on a big screen, watching on a PC is recommended.
An Account is Required to Watch Instagram Live
To watch Instagram Live, you need to have an Instagram account.
Be sure to create an Instagram account before trying to view a live broadcast. Creating an account is easy and takes just a few minutes. If you don't have an account yet, why not take this opportunity to create one?
Tips for Enjoying Instagram Live
To make the most out of your Instagram Live viewing experience, keep these tips in mind:
Turn on notifications: Enable post and Story notifications for accounts you don't want to miss live content from.
Join early: Tuning in at the beginning of a broadcast ensures you don't miss any important announcements or giveaways.
Be an active participant: Engage with the host and other viewers by asking questions, leaving comments, and sending hearts to show your support.
Check the live schedules of your favorite accounts so you don't miss them. It's also a good idea to prepare questions in advance. Now that you know how to watch a Instagram Live, you're ready to join the millions of users who enjoy this interactive and immersive feature. Happy viewing!
