Substack is officially introducing an audio-only livestreaming feature, providing creators with a low-pressure alternative to traditional video broadcasts. Announced this Tuesday, the update is designed for publishers who prefer to engage with their audience without the necessity of being on camera or for those who wish to maintain anonymity while hosting live sessions.
How the Audio-Only Feature Works
The new functionality integrates seamlessly into the existing livestreaming interface. Publishers can easily toggle their camera off by clicking the designated camera icon before or during a broadcast. The feature is highly flexible, allowing creators to re-enable video at any point during their session if they choose to switch formats mid-stream.
Despite the lack of video, the interactive core of the platform remains unchanged. Listeners retain full access to all standard engagement tools, including the ability to comment and subscribe to the publication in real-time, ensuring that creators do not sacrifice community building for privacy.
Expanding Access to Live Content
This update follows Substack’s broader strategy to democratize its tools. In January, the platform removed the previous requirement that limited livestreaming only to creators with at least 100 paying subscribers, opening the feature to all publishers regardless of their audience size.
Availability and Rollout
The audio-only mode is scheduled to begin its global rollout next week. This addition marks a significant shift in Substack’s creator tools, prioritizing accessibility and ease of use for those who prefer audio-first content delivery over traditional video production.