'ZDNET Recommends': What exactly does it mean?
ZDNET's recommendations are based on many hours of testing, research, and comparison shopping. We gather data from the best available sources, including vendor and retailer listings as well as other relevant and independent reviews sites. And we pore over customer reviews to find out what matters to real people who already own and use the products and services we’re assessing.
When you click through from our site to a retailer and buy a product or service, we may earn affiliate commissions. This helps support our work, but does not affect what we cover or how, and it does not affect the price you pay. Neither ZDNET nor the author are compensated for these independent reviews. Indeed, we follow strict guidelines that ensure our editorial content is never influenced by advertisers.
ZDNET's editorial team writes on behalf of you, our reader. Our goal is to deliver the most accurate information and the most knowledgeable advice possible in order to help you make smarter buying decisions on tech gear and a wide array of products and services. Our editors thoroughly review and fact-check every article to ensure that our content meets the highest standards. If we have made an error or published misleading information, we will correct or clarify the article. If you see inaccuracies in our content, please report the mistake via this form.
How to go live on TikTok (and how it can earn you real money)
Have you ever been scrolling through your TikTok feed when suddenly a live video comes up? Out of nowhere, it feels like you're on a one-way video call with a content creator, a stark contrast from the perfectly curated, seconds-long video you typically see on the platform.
Also: Follow ZDNET on TikTok
This feature is called TikTok Live, and it allows content creators to have more genuine interactions with their followers through live vertical video.
In addition to connecting with fans, TikTok Live video has some other major perks for creators.
Livestreams also enable fans to send qualifying creators virtual gifts, like virtual roses, silly filters, and virtual stuffed animals. In addition to getting a cute token of their viewers' appreciation, creators are able to redeem these gifts for TikTok diamonds, which they can then convert to real money.
Also: How to set better screen-time boundaries on your iPhone
If you are ready to go live, are 16 years old or older, and have a minimum of 1,000 followers, here is how you can get started.
1. Create or log in to your TikTok account
Before you go live, you'll need to create or log in to an existing TikTok account. TikTok makes it easy to create an account, with Google, Facebook, and Apple login options.
2. Optional: Look to see if you are eligible for Live gifts
This step is entirely optional, but if you're curious about whether you qualify for Live gifts, there is an easy way to check. Once you're logged in, all you need to do is click the profile icon in the bottom right corner, then click the three lines on the top right corner. Select the "Creator tools" option before clicking the "LIVE Gifts" icon. After you select the icon, you'll see whether or not you qualify. You'll also be given the option to go Live straight from there.
Also, just note that business accounts and accounts with less than 1000 followers don't qualify for the Live Gifts feature.
3. Click on the create (+) icon on the bottom bar
Now for how to quickly start your livestream. Luckily, TikTok makes it pretty intuitive. All you have to do is click on the center of the bottom bar like you would to add any regular post.
4. Scroll to the Live button and go live!
After hitting the create icon, all you have to do is swipe to the Live option and you're ready to go. Before you go live you can personalize your experience by choosing from different effects, filters, and other customizable options. You can play around with them to see what your Live would look like before beginning your broadcast.
Once you feel ready, hit that red button that reads "Go LIVE" and start your livestream!
FAQs
What is TikTok Live?
TikTok Live is TikTok's livestream option, which allows creators to connect with their fans while also further monetizing their content. With TikTok Live, fans can leave comments for creators and even give them virtual gifts to show their appreciation. These gifts can be converted to actual money for creators.
Is there a follower requirement to go live on TikTok?
Yes, to start a live video on TikTok, you have to have a minimum of 1,000 followers.
Can I start a Live video on TikTok?
As long as you are signed in to your TikTok account and have a minimum of 1,000 followers and are 16 years of age or older, you can access TikTok Live.
Why should I go live on TikTok?
Going live on TikTok using TikTok Live gives creators an added ability to grow a connection with their followers through live, genuine interactions. An added plus is that creators can make money from the streams by receiving virtual gifts that they can convert into TikTok diamonds and redeem for cash.