Instagram has unveiled a new tool that enables users to create 15-second videos complete with music, augmented reality effects, seamless transitions, and speed options. Do these features sound all too familiar?
As TikTok faces a potential ban in the U.S., Instagram is hoping to attract new users with its short-form video tool, Reels. Equipped with a suite of editing tools, users can produce creative videos that inspire and entertain friends and followers.
Similar to TikTok’s For You page which helps users grow their following, Instagram has expanded its Explore page for Reels to be seen and discovered by the entire Instagram community. Additionally, Reels that have gone viral will be labeled as “Featured” and showcased at the top of the Explore page.
From Facebook and Snapchat to TikTok and Pinterest, Instagram has faced some major competition over the years. Yet, Reels may be exactly what Instagram needs to outperform TikTok and attract a younger audience. According to Statistica, 35.2 percent of U.S. Instagram users are currently between 25 and 34 years old while 32.5 percent of U.S. TikTok users are between 10-19 years old.
Furthermore, TikTok is still under scrutiny for its potential data-sharing obligations with the Chinese government. With all the controversy surrounding TikTok’s data privacy and security regulations, Instagram Reels may give social media users greater peace of mind as they create original content.