A few weeks ago, Instagram releases a new short video feature in order to compete with TikTok.
Instagram users can now create a short video (less than 60 sec) like TikTok. There is a separate tab for it, a completely new feed just for reels. Furthermore, the reels that are shown to the users aren’t just from people you follow. It also includes people who you aren’t following.
So Instagram is copying TikTok. So what?
This new feature simply means that Instagram is pivoting away into becoming more of a short video app. So creators also need to pivot in order to catch up. Even though the barrier of entry to making short videos is fairly low, it still requires different types of skillsets.
What about the consumers, do they like it?
I think that people are accepting reels just fine. For them, it’s just an additional source of entertainment. They will most probably still watch TikTok. I think on IG now, people watch stories, reels, and then their feed.
Will Instagram reels beat TikTok?
Most likely no. Because reels aren’t the same as TikTok. They might have a similar format but they have different cultures and styles. Personally, I think reels are more polished and well-produced while TikTok has a more casual and homemade feel to it.
So what does this mean to creators?
For us creators, it just means that there is another channel for us to get discovered by new people. Because the format of it is very similar to TikTok, not much is needed if you’re moving from creating on TikTok to creating on reels. You can very much post the same content on both platforms really.
All in all, Instagram reel is a great new feature that can help you kickstart your account or grow it even more because of the potential reach you could get from it.