Attention Instagrammers! Instagram has rolled out a new feature that allows more people to go live at once. The new feature called “Live Rooms”allows up to 4 users to participate and act as ‘hosts’ in a video chat room. Instagram hopes that the introduction of Live Rooms will encourage users to start their first podcast on Instagram. Also, going live with more than two people ups the fun factor. It also allows creators to share their audiences which can help increase reach and follows among the collaborators.

On the other hand, Instragram is trying to one up apps like Clubhouse, Pong Pong and Partying by creating a more interactive session with the video experience. This allows the audience and friends to actually see the expressions and reactions of the hosts on camera. Instagram claims that its limit of up to 4 hosts helps prevent participants talking over each other. That said, the audience can still freely interact with hosts through the chat function. Instagram is encouraging a plethora of content formats including livestream shopping and fundraising using Live Rooms.

Going live with Live Rooms isn’t just about interactions. Instagram Live Rooms is also helping creators monetise by offering “Live Badges”.The audience can purchase “Live Badges” from the host. The hope is that, like other platforms, these badges will help connect creators to their audiences better. It also allows audiences to directly support creators.

However, Live Rooms isn’t going live on Instagram willy nilly. Instagram has put in place terms and conditions to help protect creators and the community. People who have been blocked by any of the participants in the Live Room will not able to join the room. In addtion, those who have lost their privileges to go Live on Instagram due to violations of Community Guidelines will not be able to partake in Live Rooms.

Both Android and iOS users have access to Live Rooms and the feature is now available on Instagram. Instagram app is available for free on from the Google Play Store and Apple App Store. Of course, as mentioned, terms and conditions to Live Rooms apply.