With this most recent move, the social media and blogging platform Instagram is ramping up its efforts to compete with TikTok. According to a screenshot that was published on Twitter by Matt Navarra, Instagram has started testing a new feature that will convert any video that is uploaded to Instagram into a Reel. This will allow the video to reach a larger audience on both Instagram and Facebook.
Instagram Videos will be replaced as Reels:
We’re testing this feature as part of our efforts to simplify and enhance the video experience on Instagram, a Meta spokesperson writes in an email to TechCrunch. In August 2020, Instagram Reels made its debut in the US. The short video format of Reels has received a ton of engagement.
According to the screenshot, “Video posts are now shared as reels.” Instagram believes that by encouraging all video to become Reels, videos will receive more engagement, have access to video effects, be able to have music added, and be remixed into new Reels.
The change is being evaluated, and it is unclear whether it will last. It’s also unclear what will happen to already-posted Instagram videos and whether you will still be able to upload 10-minute videos (or up to 60 minutes on verified accounts).
Adam Mosseri, the CEO of Instagram, declared that the platform was “no longer a photo-sharing app” almost a year ago because it had shifted its emphasis to “creators, video, shopping, and messaging.”