“We’re testing this feature as part of our efforts to simplify and improve the video experience on Instagram,” a Meta spokesperson said in an emailed statement. While the company didn’t reveal other info about the new feature, social media consultant Matt Navarra posted a screenshot on Twitter showing the banner that notifies users of this change. “Video posts are now shared as Reels,” the in-app banner says. Instagram also lists how this change will be beneficial to you. Firstly, you will be able to use the editing tools available while creating Reels to enhance your video. You can use music and other effects to give your video an appealing finish. If your account is public, posting videos as Reels may generate more views and engagement, as it will get exposure to the audience across Instagram and Facebook. Anyone can discover your video and use your original audio to create Reels. Note that your videos will only be visible to your followers if your account is set to private. Additionally, people can create a remix of your Reel and download it. But if you’re not comfortable with that, you can turn off remixing from settings. You can also modify this setting for each Reel. This gives you more flexibility.
Instagram is testing making all video posts Reels
According to the new report, Instagram is currently testing this feature with select users around the world. It’s unclear when it will roll out the changes publicly. Perhaps there’s no confirmation if this change will ever roll out widely. There are numerous hurdles that the company will have to address. Firstly, Reels are posted in vertical format. This may affect normal videos that are in horizontal format. Additionally, it’s unclear whether Instagram will continue allowing users to post videos up to ten minutes long (up to 60 minutes for some verified accounts). It is also unclear what will happen to videos that are already on Instagram. Nonetheless, this change is in line with the head of Instagram Adam Mosseri’s comments from June 2021. He had said the platform is “no longer a photo-sharing app”. The company is shifting its focus to “creators, video, shopping, and messaging”. We will let you know when we have more information about the latest change to Instagram’s video experience.
