What the Hell is YouNow? | Joshua Robertson

Originally posted by Joshua Robertson:

This is a question I have received frequently over the past month when I started using the social platform called YouNow [created in 2011], and trying to find fellow writers/artists/etc. who used the app too. And you know what? I have a really hard time explaining it! 

In the most basic language, YouNow is a real-time livestreaming video app. Users have the ability to broadcast live while other users chat and comment about what is going on. 

Admittedly, I am slowly becoming addicted to using this platform. While some broadcasts are rather slow with few viewers, others tend to be rather eventful with several people chiming in to engage with the YouNower.

FOLLOW ME ON YOUNOW

In my short time using YouNow, I have found quite a few positive and negative features of the app. 

POSITIVES

• YouNow connects directly to YouTube, which offers a great multi-streaming option to hit viewers on both platforms.
• YouNow also connects with other social media apps (Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, Tumblr) to tell viewers when you go LIVE.
• YouNow is extremely user-friendly, and you connect with an awesome arrangement of artists, musicians, singers, etc. I likely would have difficulty finding these people on other venues.
• If you do well enough, YouNow has a Partner option with its own line of cool benefits.
• You can capture moments in videos and bring friends into a 1:1 chat while others engage through commentary in a sidechat window.

NEGATIVES

• 70% of the audience (2015 stats) are under the age of 24. With the minimum age of 13, I have found it a bit difficult to find adults and have adult conversations regularly.
• Trolls / Creeps / Predators – Though I have not dealt with these individuals, I have found them lurking in other rooms. YouNow does ban people who misuse the sight, but you still get some weirdos. [Parents whose kids use the site be forewarned.]
• As with many social media platforms, it is difficult gaining traction. I am still trying to figure out the audience of YouNow and their perceived interests.

So, why am I using YouNow?

I am hoping to be able to reach more creative types, and bring them to the conversation with a platform to reach a new audience. Whether you are writing a book, creating a game, writing a song, have a Patreon or Kickstarter, etc. I think it would be enjoyable to talk to you Live on YouNow about your work, your journey, and the lessons you have learned along the way.

In summary, I am going to keep using YouNow and hope some you come and join me. I have reached 795 followers, and I am working eagerly for my first 1000. So come by and say hello. I try to go live, at least, a few times a week!

FOLLOW ME ON YOUNOW