Facebook Livelets you livestream video directly from your Android or iOS device. Creating and streaming live content might sound like a challenge, but setting up alivestream within Facebook’s mobile appis a fairly straightforward process. Here’s how to go live.

Getting started

Step 1:The first step to setting up a livestream is to launch the Facebook app as you would normally. From theNews Feedtab, locate theLivebutton just below theWhat’s on Your Mind?section at the top of your display. (Note: The screenshots below are from theiOS version, but the steps also apply toAndroid.)

Step 2:Next, tap either theLivebutton or theWhat’s on Your Mind?field at the top, the latter of which will bring up a host of additional options, including aLive Videobutton.

Step 3:If this is your first time livestreaming content on Facebook, the app will ask for permission to access your device’s camera and microphone. You’ll want to grant permission. Otherwise, you won’t be able to stream video from your device. Once done, watch the brief introduction video to seehow the feature actually works.

Step 4:Once the introduction has concluded, it’s time to get started. Describe your video at the bottom of your screen and, if desired, geotag your location ortag other Facebook usersin your livestream. Here, you’re able to also add other information to your livestream, including your mood, masks, and special effects.

When everything is set up and ready to go, press the blueStart Live Videobutton to share your scene with the world — or at least your friends, family, and followers. When you’re ready to sign off, simply tapFinishto end the stream. Facebook will automatically save and publish the video on your profile page so that anyone who missed it can watch it later. You can also change privacy settings to control who can see the video or remove it entirely if you no longer want it to appear in your feed.

There you have it — you’ve just made your first livestream to Facebook! Not too shabby. Going live on Facebook is actually pretty easy, but if you’re interested in taking your content further, you may want to consider upping the quality of your audio with an external microphone. Improving stabilization with a smartphone gimbal, like theDJI Osmo Mobile, is another way to stand out from the crowd. These accessories certainly aren’t required, but they will let you take your streams to the next level if you’re interested in doing so.