• by Gavin O'Malley , Staff Writer @mp_gavin, May 16, 2017

From the boring to the boorish, Facebook knows that its Live video content could use some refining.

For that reason, the social giant just added some additional caveats to its developer policy, including a warning not to broadcast images -- be they static, animated, or looping -- on Live, or live-stream polls associated with unmoving or ambient broadcasts. In other words, Facebook just doesn't want still images being broadcast on Live -- only live video.

Going forward, Facebook also wants broadcasters to make sure that any pre-recorded content is clearly distinguishable from live content.

App developers should also remind users of their obligation not to include third-party ads in their video content -- and to clearly distinguish any pre-recorded content from live content.

Oh, and, “Don’t build apps that enable publishers to simultaneously stream to Facebook and other online streaming services,” the tech titan now cautions developers.

Together, the new guidelines are designed to encourage broadcasters to use Live for developing news stories, live event coverage, and similarly appropriate functions.    

Of course, Facebook’s video strategy faces bigger threats than dull content.

Indeed, its Live service has recently played host to a string of rapes, beatings, and even murder. In response, Facebook just recently promised to hire another 3,000 human content monitors -- in addition to the 4,500 or so people who already make up the company’s community operations team.

Facebook is also working with local community groups and law enforcement well-positioned to act on threats or acts of violence.