Facebook Watch now lets people chat live during sports games. The social media company added this feature to make watching sports more interactive. Fans can talk to each other while the game streams live. They can comment on plays, celebrate goals, or react to big moments together in real time.
(Facebook Watch adds real-time chat for sports events)
This new chat appears directly beside the video feed. Fans see comments pop up instantly. They can join the conversation easily without leaving the video. Facebook thinks this will make watching sports online feel more like watching with friends in person. The goal is to build community around live sports events.
The feature works on both phones and computers. People can use it during many live games shown on Facebook Watch. This includes games from different leagues and sports. Facebook plans to offer this chat for most major sports streams on its platform. It is available now to users in many countries.
Facebook tested this chat feature with some users before. People liked being able to share reactions immediately. The company believes live chat keeps viewers more engaged. They stay longer on the platform. More interaction could also attract advertisers. Brands want to reach active, involved audiences during popular events.
(Facebook Watch adds real-time chat for sports events)
Adding chat helps Facebook Watch compete with other live streaming services. Viewers increasingly expect social features during live broadcasts. Facebook wants its platform to be the place people go for live sports online. This update is part of that larger effort. The feature uses existing Facebook Messenger technology but is built right into the Watch experience.