Periscope maintained its popularity throughout its six-year run, but its closure in 2021 left users shocked. However, in the internet world, there is always an alternative. The following live streaming apps will ensure you don’t miss Periscope.
What is Periscope?
Periscope was a social network that enabled users to broadcast live videos. To create and share content, users simply needed an internet connection and an account, which could be set up using an email address, social media accounts like Facebook or Twitter, or a phone number. After logging in, they could browse and select from a range of live streams. Additionally, viewers could engage with broadcasters by posting comments in real time during the broadcasts.
Why Did Periscope Shut Down?
Periscope was shut down because the costs of maintaining and growing the platform exceeded its revenue. After Twitter acquired Periscope, the company failed to achieve its desired results, which also contributed to the platform’s closure.
Over time, Periscope faced intense competition from established platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Additionally, in 2016, Twitter introduced its own live broadcasting feature, further reducing Periscope’s relevance. It’s worth noting that even while Periscope was still operational, X had already begun to neglect the platform, despite still owning it.
Periscope-like Live Streaming Apps
Spark Live
Spark Live is one of the best platforms for live streaming, enabling users to connect, interact, and broadcast. The app allows you to meet and make friends from around the world.
On Spark Live, you can discover a wide variety of broadcasts—from casual high school chats to streamers performing popular songs and dances, as well as cosplayers showcasing unique outfits. Additionally, you can monetize your content by showcasing your talents during live streams.
Key Features:
- Earn money through live streaming.
- Engage with broadcasts via comments, video, and audio chats.
- Unlock exclusive perks with a premium membership.
SuperLive
SuperLive is a social networking app that connects users worldwide through live streaming. It enables you to chat with friends, exchange virtual gifts, and support each other within the app. Please note that SuperLive is recommended for users aged 17 and above, as some broadcasts may contain mature content.
Key Features:
- Send virtual gifts to broadcasters by purchasing in-app coins.
- Host live streams with up to three broadcasters simultaneously.
- Mark incoming messages as unread to review them later.
- Sign up using your phone number, email address, Google, or Twitter account.
Streamlabs
Streamlabs is a popular live streaming app that allows content creators to stream high-quality live strStreamlabs is a powerful app designed to enhance live streaming on platforms like Twitch, YouTube, and Facebook. It offers professional-grade tools to help content creators improve their broadcasts with advanced features.
Key Features:
- Create and customize alerts for new followers, donations, and subscribers.
- Access a library of overlays, themes, and widgets to improve stream visuals.
- Enable direct viewer donations to support content creators.
- Stream live directly from mobile devices for on-the-go broadcasting.
- Seamlessly integrate with popular apps and services like OBS, Discord, and Spotify.
With these tools, Streamlabs empowers streamers to deliver high-quality, engaging live content.
StreamYard
StreamYard is one of the top alternatives to Periscope, ideal for live streaming webinars, interviews, and professional broadcasts. It supports multiple platforms, including YouTube, Facebook Live, LinkedIn, Twitter, and Twitch, allowing you to stream seamlessly across these services.
Key Features:
- Brand Customization: Display your logo on videos to boost brand recognition and engagement.
- Screen Sharing & File Uploads: Share your screen or upload files during live broadcasts.
- Scheduled Streaming: Plan and announce streams in advance so viewers know when to tune in.
- Multi-Platform Streaming: Broadcast simultaneously to various social platforms.
StreamYard offers a free version with basic features, including support for up to 10 participants. If this meets your needs, it’s a great tool to explore. To get started, visit the website, click “Get Started”, enter your email, and verify with the access code sent to you.
Livestream
Livestream is a professional live streaming application that enables users to broadcast videos across social networks, whether for events or everyday content. It stands out as one of the top solutions in the market for live video production.
Key Features:
- Multi-Device Streaming: Switch seamlessly between fixed and mobile cameras, using smartphones, tablets, or laptops for high-quality broadcasts.
- Real-Time Interaction: Engage with viewers through the built-in chat feature while streaming.
- Multi-Platform Sharing: Broadcast simultaneously on Facebook, YouTube, Vimeo, Twitter, and Twitch.
The free version supports single-camera streaming with a four-hour weekly limit. For unrestricted access to all features, including extended broadcasting and multi-camera setups, a monthly subscription is available.
OBS
OBS (Open Broadcaster Software) is a powerful, versatile live streaming application widely favored by content creators for its rich features, customization options, and user-friendly interface. As an open-source, cross-platform solution, it benefits from continuous improvements driven by an active community, making it ideal for live streaming, gameplay recording, and webinars.
Key Features:
- Advanced Customization: Tailor your streaming and recording setup with extensive settings.
- Multi-Platform Support: Stream seamlessly to popular platforms like Twitch and YouTube.
- Free and Open-Source: No cost barriers with community-driven enhancements.
For downloads and updates, visit the official OBS website. OBS remains a top choice for professional-grade streaming and recording.
LiveMe
LiveMe is a live streaming app that allows users to broadcast live and interact with their audience in real LiveMe is a dynamic live streaming app that enables real-time interaction between broadcasters and their audience. Combining entertainment with social networking, it offers an engaging platform for users to build their online presence.
Key Features:
In-App Purchases: Buy tokens for virtual gifts and premium features.
Real-Time Streaming: Host live broadcasts and interact with followers instantly.
Virtual Gifting System: Viewers can purchase and send virtual gifts to support their favorite creators.
Social Networking: Follow, chat, and connect with other users on the platform.
Creative Tools: Enhance streams with filters and visual effects.
Twitch
Twitch, an Amazon-owned platform, is the leading live streaming service for gamers. While primarily focused on gaming content, it has expanded to include diverse live broadcasts such as sports, music performances, cooking shows, and more.
Key Features:
- Live Interaction: Watch and engage with streamers in real time through synchronized chat.
- Monetization Options: Multiple revenue streams for content creators.
- On-Demand Content: Grow your audience with both live streams and recorded videos.
- Game Integration: Display real-time game data using built-in extensions.
Twitch remains the top platform for interactive gaming content and live entertainment.
BIGO LIVE
BIGO LIVE is a global live streaming platform with over 400 million users across 150 countries, offering personal broadcasts ranging from music and cooking to stand-up comedy.
Key Features:
- PK Battles: A competitive live feature where two streamers face off in timed challenges (e.g., comedy, music, or dance), with winners determined by audience gifts (diamonds).
- Co-Streaming: Invite friends to co-host broadcasts.
- Interactive Chat: Engage with viewers and other broadcasters in real time.
- Multi-Guest Rooms: Group chat and gameplay sessions with multiple participants.
MeetMe
MeetMe is a multifunctional social platform that blends live streaming, messaging, and video calling with opportunities to connect with new people.
Key Features:
- Live Streaming: Easily start your own broadcast, invite friends to grow your audience, and receive virtual gifts (diamonds) from viewers.
- Integrated Social & Dating: Combines social networking with interactive features for meeting people.
- Unrestricted Chat: Exchange messages with all members, regardless of subscription status.
- Interactive Viewing: Watch live streams or launch your own while engaging with others.
YouNow
YouNow, though less mainstream than some competitors, remains a valuable live streaming platform similar to Periscope. Launched in 2011, it enables real-time broadcasting, community engagement, and live chat, particularly popular among artists and musicians.
Key Features:
- Live Streaming & Interaction: Broadcast content or join active chat forums with other users.
- Discover Creatives: Easily connect with favorite personalities, musicians, and artists.
- Social Sharing: Seamlessly share broadcasts on Twitter, Instagram, Tumblr, and Snapchat.
BuzzCast
BuzzCast is a live streaming and video chat platform that offers unrestricted broadcasting and short-form video sharing.
Key Features:
- Unlimited Live Streaming: No follower requirements or level restrictions for broadcasts.
- Short Video Creation: Share 15-second clips to grow your audience.
- Interactive Chat Rooms: Join diverse broadcast rooms for real-time conversations.
- Location-Based Matching: Use GPS to connect with nearby users.
- Open Access: Live streaming is available to all users without limitations.
Tango
Tango is a live streaming platform that enables real-time interaction between broadcasters and viewers while offering monetization opportunities.
Key Features:
- Live Broadcasting: Stream video content via Wi-Fi or mobile networks (3G/4G).
- Monetization: Earn income through virtual gifts from viewers, convertible to real money.
- Talent Discovery: Showcase skills as a broadcaster or explore new content as a viewer.
- Direct Engagement: Follow and chat with favorite creators.
- Content Sharing: Broadcasters can post photos and videos for their audience.
