LinkedIn is making significant changes to its event hosting options by phasing out its dedicated Audio Events and integrating them into LinkedIn Live.
Starting December 2, 2024, users will no longer be able to create standalone Audio Events. This change unifies both audio and video live event experiences under a single entry point.
The move is designed to streamline the live event experience on the platform, making it easier for hosts and attendees to connect.
If you have an Audio Event scheduled before December 31, 2024, you can still host it as planned. However, any Audio Event scheduled after that date will need to be recreated through LinkedIn Live by December 15, 2024.
After this date, LinkedIn will no longer support native audio-only events. Instead, event creators will need to use one of LinkedIn’s trusted third-party streaming partners to broadcast their audio content.
The update brings several changes to how events will be managed. Attendees will still be able to interact by commenting and adding their perspectives in real-time, but speakers will need to use the streaming tool they’ve chosen to go live. It’s important for event organizers to share the necessary event and speaker details well ahead of time to ensure a smooth experience.
Additionally, LinkedIn Live will automatically record events, making them available for later playback and sharing on users’ profiles or pages. This automatic recording feature will provide an added benefit for those who may have missed the live event.
To host an audio-only event on LinkedIn Live, users will need to select LinkedIn Live as the event format when creating the event.
Afterward, they must choose a third-party streaming tool and familiarize themselves with its features. It’s also recommended that event organizers set up a static image, such as the event cover, to avoid broadcasting a blank screen.
When the event time arrives, users will connect their stream to the event, monitor the comments, and engage with attendees. Once the event concludes, the recording will automatically be available for sharing.
This update reflects LinkedIn’s push to streamline the event hosting experience and create a more cohesive platform for creators and brands.
The consolidation of audio and video events under LinkedIn Live is a logical step, offering improved functionality and a more unified experience for both hosts and participants.
LinkedIn’s decision to merge Audio Events with LinkedIn Live represents a broader trend of consolidating features to reduce complexity and enhance user experience.
While this change will require some adjustment, it ultimately simplifies the process for both event organizers and attendees, bringing more interactivity and better integration of multimedia content in live events.