How to Start a Stream on YouTube: Basic Requirements

Want to go live on YouTube but don't know where to start? Worried about technical settings, platform rules, and requirements? Don't worry — we've gathered everything you need to launch your first stream, including in the vertical format for YouTube Shorts, which is rapidly gaining popularity.

What Do You Need to Start Streaming on YouTube?

Before you go live, make sure your channel meets YouTube's basic requirements.

Enable Live Streaming on Your Channel

To access streaming, YouTube requires you to:

• Verify your phone number

• Wait 24 hours after activating the live streaming feature

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Without completing these steps, you won't be able to start a live broadcast.

Vertical Broadcasts: How to Get Into the Shorts Feed

YouTube now supports vertical live broadcasts that appear directly in the Shorts section. This is a great opportunity to reach a new audience and significantly expand your reach.

Requirements for streams in Shorts:

• Video format: strictly vertical (9:16 aspect ratio)

• Platform: only via the YouTube mobile app

• Live streaming must be enabled in your channel settings

  
  

Technical Settings for a Stable Broadcast

If you use third-party streaming software, follow YouTube's recommended specifications for the best results.

Video settings:

Audio settings:

Stream metadata limits:

• Maximum title length: 100 characters

• Maximum description length: 5,000 characters

• Thumbnail size: 1280×720 pixels

  
  

Add Automatic Subtitles for Greater Engagement

YouTube automatically generates subtitles for your broadcast. Viewers can toggle them on or off directly in the player — a great convenience for a global audience.

How Streams Keep Working After You Go Offline

A completed stream is saved in your broadcasts section and continues to be promoted by YouTube just like a regular video. It accumulates views, runs ads, and can generate donations — making it a long-term asset from a single session.

How Creator Tools Helps You Reach the International Market

• 140+ languages — automatic subtitle translation for a worldwide audience

• AI assistant with personalized recommendations

• Launch in a couple of clicks — no complex setup required

• Video format optimization — built-in tools to get your stream ready fast

  
  

Start Streaming and Grow Your Audience Today

Live broadcasts are a powerful way to retain viewers, increase video views, and earn revenue. They're one of the fastest-growing formats on YouTube right now.

If you want to go live quickly and without hassle, Creator Tools makes the entire process simple and efficient.