Have you updated your social media apps recently? Because if you haven’t, it’s time! Instagram just revealed Reels, a new feature comparable to TikTok. With the uncertainty and the threat to ban TikTok, Instagram decided to release Reels. Reels provides a TikTok experience on Instagram in 50 different countries.
Just like TikTok, Reels allows you to create and edit videos using a countdown clock and an align tool, which enables users to string together different videos. You can also add music, filters, and effects to your videos just like TikTok. This feature is essentially a clone of TikTok, that allows users to make videos of themselves lip-syncing and dancing. The biggest difference seems to be the length of the video. Reel allows only 15 seconds while TikTok allows 60 seconds.
You can share Reels with your followers or if you have a public account, they can be discovered through a new space to explore. Reels in ‘Explore’ gives Instagram users the chance to become a creator and get discovered even if they don’t have a large number of followers. Instagram states that “Reels gives people new ways to express themselves, discover more of what they love on Instagram, and help anyone with the ambition of becoming a creator take center stage.” This allows users to be creative and use their talents rather than upload broad topics like beauty and aesthetics that currently dominate Instagram.
The timing of the US release of Reels seems suspicious, but it’s been part of the plan and they have been working on it for over a year in other countries. After the threat of banning TikTok, President Trump is now trying to force a sale of TikTok to Microsoft. But will Microsoft buy TikTok?
So far, the Reels launch is drawing a lot of attention and Instagram will continue to focus on innovating Reels and getting users to adapt to the new and exciting feature.
Contact us if you have questions about this new Instagram feature or any other social media channels and how to strategize and execute an effective marketing plan online.