Twitter integrates Periscope into its own iOS app

Twitter has added new functionality to its application for iOS devices. Since the update, Periscope links are automatically shown as live streams on users’ timelines. Twitter is also working on a Periscope implementation for the Android app.

In a blog post, both Twitter and Periscope said the implementation will allow live video streams to be visible in the Twitter app. When a Periscope stream passes by in the timeline, it will now automatically start playing with no sound. This can be turned off in the settings by choosing the option not to play videos automatically. Previously, Periscope streams just passed by as a link, with no preview or other visual aspects. If the stream is selected in the Twitter timeline, the image will go to full screen instead of launching the separate Periscope application.

The streaming application’s chat feature still requires the original Periscope app. However, it is possible to treat the stream tweets as regular tweets. The tweets can be shared, liked, and commented on. Both Twitter and Periscope indicate that they are focusing on reaching more people. This is not an unknown situation for Twitter. The company has been dealing with stagnating user growth figures for some time now.

Twitter bought Periscope in early 2015, probably to compete with similar programs like Meerkat. Facebook is also not lagging behind in the implementation of live streaming. The company added the capability to its application in December. Twitter says it is also working on a Periscope implementation for the Android app and on the website, but has not yet indicated when this will be realized.