The result is a service that's less about as-it-happens events and more about pre-arranged productions. Test users have created news and talk shows, for instance. And even if you're not bent on internet stardom, Hype could be helpful for recapping a vacation without having to send a wave of media links to your friends.

Hype is only available for iOS right now (the team is creating an Android version), and there's no certainty that it'll find success. Remember Meerkat and Qik? Facebook and Twitter already have many livestreaming fans, and it may be difficult to shift the momentum away from these heavyweights. The newer service may stand a better chance than most, though. It's offering features that Facebook Live and Periscope don't offer right now, but aren't just novelties -- there's a tangible benefit to expanding the kinds of broadcasts you can offer. The challenge is convincing users that it's worth switching to Hype for these new tricks.