What I Hate About Periscope [Periscope]

TL;DR

Michael Hyatt discusses improvements needed for Periscope.

Transcript

hi if you're watching this replay of the live broadcast uh welcome I'm thrilled that you're here this is the daily Mentor show where I provide the Insight the inspiration and the tools you need to stop drifting and create the life you want and by the way if you're watching the replay let me just remind that you can tap on the screen show the love a... Read More

Key Insights

• Michael Hyatt highlights the need for Periscope to support landscape mode, as the current portrait-only view limits the viewing experience.
• The default camera view is an issue, as it initially shows the rear camera, requiring a quick double-tap to switch to the front-facing camera.
• An on-screen timer is necessary to help broadcasters manage their time effectively during live sessions.
• Comment readability is a problem due to small, gray fonts, which makes it difficult for broadcasters to interact with viewers.
• Periscope lacks an iPad version, which would provide more screen real estate and potentially enhance user experience.
• A preview mode would be beneficial, allowing broadcasters to set up their screen and lighting before going live.
• An audio meter is needed to help broadcasters manage sound levels and ensure optimal audio quality during broadcasts.
• Improved comment control is essential as comments often scroll too fast, making it challenging to engage with the audience effectively.

Questions & Answers

Q: What is the main issue with Periscope's current video orientation?

The main issue with Periscope's current video orientation is that it only supports portrait mode. Michael Hyatt argues that this limits the viewing experience, as most other video platforms, like YouTube, utilize landscape mode. He believes that landscape mode would allow for a more natural viewing experience and better integration of comments.

Q: Why does Michael Hyatt find the default camera view problematic?

Michael Hyatt finds the default camera view problematic because it starts with the rear camera, which often captures unintentional footage like a ring light or part of a room. Users must quickly double-tap to switch to the front-facing camera, which can be an unnecessary hassle. He suggests that starting with the front-facing camera would streamline the broadcasting process.

Q: What improvements does Hyatt suggest for comment readability?

Hyatt suggests that Periscope should improve comment readability by changing the small, gray fonts to something more legible. The current font makes it difficult for broadcasters to read and interact with their audience, which is a crucial part of the live streaming experience. He emphasizes the need for more readable fonts to facilitate better engagement.

Q: How does Hyatt propose to enhance the Periscope experience on iPads?

Hyatt proposes that Periscope should develop a dedicated iPad version of the app. This would take advantage of the larger screen size, providing more real estate for features like comments and timers. An iPad version could potentially offer a more robust and user-friendly experience, enhancing both broadcasting and viewing capabilities.

Q: What is the purpose of an on-screen timer according to Hyatt?

According to Hyatt, an on-screen timer would help broadcasters manage their time more effectively during live sessions. It would allow them to keep track of the remaining time, ensuring that they respect their audience's schedule and adhere to the promised broadcast duration. This feature would contribute to a more professional and organized presentation.

Q: Why does Hyatt emphasize the need for a preview mode?

Hyatt emphasizes the need for a preview mode because it would allow broadcasters to set up their screen, lighting, and framing before going live. Without a preview mode, broadcasters have to rely on guesswork, which can lead to suboptimal video quality. A preview mode would ensure that everything is correctly aligned and well-lit, enhancing the overall broadcast quality.

Q: What is the significance of an audio meter in live broadcasts?

An audio meter is significant in live broadcasts because it helps broadcasters monitor and adjust their sound levels in real-time. Hyatt notes that without an audio meter, it's challenging to ensure that the audio is neither too loud nor too soft. An audio meter would provide immediate feedback, allowing broadcasters to deliver clear and consistent audio quality.

Q: How does Hyatt suggest handling fast-scrolling comments?

Hyatt suggests that Periscope should improve comment control to handle fast-scrolling comments more effectively. He notes that the rapid pace makes it difficult for broadcasters to read and respond to viewer input. Implementing features that allow broadcasters to pause, scroll back, or highlight specific comments would greatly enhance engagement and interaction during live sessions.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Michael Hyatt, a virtual mentor and author, shares his thoughts on the current limitations of Periscope as a video platform. He emphasizes the importance of landscape mode and better comment control to enhance user experience.

• Hyatt outlines several improvements needed for Periscope, including an on-screen timer, improved font readability, and an iPad version. He also suggests features like a preview mode and an audio meter to aid broadcasters.

• The discussion touches on the need for a stop button and better comment management to make Periscope a more viable platform. Hyatt invites viewers to share their own frustrations and suggestions for improvement.