If you use Instagram, then you know that there have been a lot of changes happening within the platform lately. One of the most talked-about updates is regarding Reels. Originally designed for posting still images, Instagram has evolved by prioritizing video uploads, otherwise known as Instagram ‘Reels.’ This addition has kept the app relevant against other popular video-based platforms dominating the digital world such as TikTok.
Here are some key updates happening on Instagram surrounding Reels:
Algorithm
Any video posted that is less than 15 minutes will be posted as a Reel, compared to a standard video post. Since most videos on Instagram are under 15 minutes, this means that almost every video upload will now automatically be a Reel. Instagram has also brought full-screen viewing for all video posts, so when users are viewing the Reels tab all videos will be full-screen, similar to TikTok’s layout. Finally, the video and Reels tab on personal profiles have been consolidated into one tab, meaning all of your videos are located in one place. One thing to note is that previous videos that were not uploaded as Reels will stay as videos and not be reformatted into Reels in this combining of tabs.
Functionality
All video uploads now have access to Reels creative editing tools. This includes features such as filters, audio, text, and more. There is also the ‘Remix’ feature, which allows users to add their own creative edits such as a split screen or animations to an existing Reel. When commenting on posts, users also now have the ability to reply with a Reel to boost engagement and encourage the use of Reels.
Brand/Influencer Use
Users have the option to “boost” Reels and turn them into ads. This is a good tool for businesses and influencers who are trying to reach new audiences and promote more engagement. These boosted Reels can appear in your feed, Stories, the Reels tab, and the Explore page. If you have a public account, your Reels will also be eligible to be “recommended,” giving them the opportunity to be seen by more people. This means your Reels may be featured on the Explore page or within user’s feeds as a “recommended” post; however, this only applies to Reels under 90 seconds.
Reels have reinvented Instagram in both functionality and appearance, with an array of mixed feelings from many users about all of the changes on the platform. It’s important to be up-to-date with social media, as simple changes such as these Reels updates have a large impact on the digital world.
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