For starters, Instagram is converting all new videos that are shorter than 15 minutes into Reels. Any video that you upload to the platform following this change will be shared as a Reel. As such, you will have access to editing tools and effects available while creating Reels. Existing videos on the app will see no change. They will remain as is. Instagram was spotted testing this feature a few weeks back. The idea is to give your videos greater exposure and increase engagement. If you post a video shorter than 90 seconds, it may be eligible for recommendation to the public. Of course, your account must be public for that. Otherwise, the videos will only be accessible to your followers. Additionally, all videos and Reels will now reside under the same tab on your profile for easier discovery. Instagram may extend recommendation eligibility to longer videos in the future.
Instagram makes it easier to create Reels
In addition to converting all videos into Reels, Instagram is also introducing new ways to create them. Firstly, you can now remix public photos to create unique Reels Remix. The company rolled out something similar for public videos in January this year. Users can turn off remixing for their new photos and videos from the settings menu. Existing photos and videos on Instagram have remixing off by default. Reels Remix, which is Instagram’s TikTok Duets clone, is also getting new layouts. You can now choose from a green screen, horizontal or vertical split-screen, or picture-in-picture view. You also have the option to create a sequential Reels Remix where your remix will appear after the original Reel, instead of both appearing simultaneously. Instagram is also offering templates that have preloaded audio and video placeholders to enable anyone to create quality Reels on the go. Simply select a template and add your photos and videos to have a “well-executed” Reel ready in no time. You can find templates under the camera icon on the Reels tab. Last but not least, Instagram is adding a Dual feature that lets you record videos using your phone’s front and back cameras simultaneously. This enables you to record your reaction or commentary to a live video. The new features and tools should roll out to all Instagram users over the next few weeks.
