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Frequently Asked Questions

Got questions about running your 24/7 live stream? We've put together helpful answers to make your streaming journey smooth and successful.

General

What is Upstream?

Upstream is a live streaming platform that allows you to stream to YouTube 24/7 without having to leave your device running or having any prior knowledge of video editing, graphic design or server setup. We take care of all the technical stuff for you while being creative with our streaming builder.

How do I get started with live streaming?

Create a stream and upload your pre recorded video or gif. You can even add custom music over it and an additional sound effect. We will automatically restart your audio and video as soon as it ends, resulting in a continuous stream that will captivate the audience until you decide to halt it.

Do I have to be a streamer to use Upstream?

No. Upstream is for everyone. Whether you are a streamer, a content creator, a business, a brand, a non-profit, or a school, you can use Upstream to stream to YouTube 24/7

How tech savvy do I have to be to use Upstream?

You do not have to be tech savvy to use Upstream. We take care of all the technical stuff for you. You can also use our streaming builder to create a custom stream experience that is unique to you.

What's the difference between a live streaming video and a regular video?

A live streaming video is a video that is streamed live to your audience. A regular video is a video that is recorded and uploaded to a platform like YouTube or Facebook and can't be updated once it's uploaded. Live streaming videos are real-time and have the potential to reach a greater audience than a regular video as YouTube gives priority to live streams on their platform.

Why use upstream.so when I can stream to YouTube myself?

Our streaming service offers 24/7 live streaming, unlike YouTube. We have partnerships with major streaming platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, and Facebook. Our stream builder is considered the best in class. Users can choose from multiple channels for music and effects, and can upload pre-recorded videos and queue them. Additionally, users can add more videos while their stream is live. Our service is user-friendly and does not require any technical knowledge. Users can also schedule their streams in advance.

Do I have to have my own server to use Upstream?

No. You do not need your own server to use Upstream. We take care of all the technical stuff for you.

What is the difference between Upstream and other live streaming platforms?

Our best in class streaming builder allows you to create a custom stream experience that is unique to you. With multi-channel audio, custom overlays, and more, you can create a stream without having any knowledge of video editing or graphic design.

What is the difference between Upstream and OBS?

OBS is a free and open source software that allows you to stream to many platforms. Upstream is a live streaming platform that allows you to stream to YouTube and soon more platforms at once. In other words, OBS is a tool and Upstream is a platform that serves 24/7 live streams. With OBS you have to leave your device running for the duration of your stream.

Experience

How do I connect my streaming accounts?

Simply click on the "Create Stream" button and select the streaming platforms you want to connect. There you will find detailed instructions on how to connect your streaming accounts with screenshots.

How long does it take to go live?

It takes less than 5 minutes to go live since we set up your server as soon as you create your account. Once your server is set up, you are live.

Can I use my own custom backgrounds and audio files?

Yes. You can use your own custom backgrounds and audio files, with multi-channel audio support to add your own effects; a snowy day in the mountains while you sit by the fire, the typical sounds of a busy city street, or the sound of the ocean waves crashing on the shore - you decide.

Can I update my background image, video or audio without interrupting my stream?

Yes. Unlike other live streaming platforms, Upstream allows you to update your video and audio without interrupting your stream. This is useful if you want to change your background image, add new songs or change your stream according to any factors like time of day or weather. We are also working on a feature to automate this for you in the future.

Who are Upstream's typical users?

Upstream is for everyone. Whether you are a streamer, a content creator, a business, a brand, a non-profit, or a school, you can use Upstream to stream to YouTube 24/7.

Is streaming considered duplicate content?

No. Streaming is not considered duplicate content by Google. Streaming is considered a different format than a video on demand and is treated as such by web crawlers.

Billing

How much does Upstream cost?

Upstream offers 4 tiers, Lite, Basic, Plus and Pro. Each tier has a different price and features. You can find more information about our pricing plans here.

When wll my order be processed?

Your order will be processed immediately. You will be charged immediately and your subscription will start immediately.

What is the difference between the Lite, Basic, Plus and Pro plans?

You can find more information about our pricing plans here.

Do you offer a free trial?

We offer a free trial period, activated upon registration if applicable. Its duration is up to 48 hours, depending on available resources. The trial period may be extended or shortened at our discretion.

How do I cancel my subscription?

You can cancel your subscription at any time. Simply go to your account settings and click on the "Subscription" button.

How do I change my subscription plan?

You can change your subscription plan at any time. Simply go to your dashboard settings and click on the "Subscription" button.

How do I delete my account?

You can delete your account at any time from your user account settings. You don't need to cancel your subscription before deleting your account. Although we're sad to see you go, we understand that sometimes things don't work out. If you have any questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out to us at contact@upstream.so.

Security

How do I change my password?

You can change your password at any time from your user account settings.

Are you GDPR compliant?

Yes. Our company headquarters is in Europe and we are GDPR compliant. You can find more information about our privacy policy here.