Twitter opens up live video streaming with new API

Twitter is now letting users share live video through the social network without needing to broadcast via its Periscope app.

The launch of the new Periscope Producer API opens up new ways for users to share live video – such as starting broadcasts directly from external hardware, software, cameras and web services.

The API lets third-party applications authenticate Periscope accounts, configure streams, start and stop broadcasts and publish broadcasts direct to Twitter.

The move follows the launch of Periscope Producer in October, which let users stream via the Twitter-owned video streaming service using professional equipment for the first time – not just mobile phones or tablets.

Aimed at brands, media organisations and other live video creators, the launch of Periscope Producer allowed them stream via the Periscope app high-quality live video from external sources – including streaming software and professional cameras.

News of the Pericope Producer was fist reported by tech site The Information earlier this month and it marks Twitter’s ongoing commitment to video.

Last month the company said it broadcast 6.6 million hours of live video through Periscope in its financial fourth quarter and attracted 31 million unique viewers to live premium video in the first quarter of operations, with 600 hours of live content from partners streamed across about 400 events.