Instagram Tests Long-Form Videos to Compete With YouTube
Translated & summarized from Kipa by baba
Instagram is testing a new feature allowing creators to upload videos up to 90 minutes long, aiming to compete with YouTube. The trial, currently in the US and Brazil, also includes tools to link short clips to full-length content and organize Reels into series. Instagram has not yet revealed a monetization plan for these longer videos.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Instagram is testing 90-minute horizontal videos to retain users and compete with YouTube.
- The new feature, called Features, is currently in a trial phase in the US and Brazil.
- Clips as Reels will let creators share short previews linking to full-length videos.
- Organizing Reels into series is also being considered to improve navigation.
- Instagram has not yet announced a revenue model for the long-form video content.
Instagram is experimenting with a new feature that allows select content creators to upload horizontal videos up to 90 minutes long, aiming to keep users within the app for longer viewing sessions. This trial, named Features, is currently limited to the United States and Brazil, with no confirmed timeline for wider release or availability in Israel.
In addition to long-form videos, Instagram is testing a tool called Clips as Reels. This feature will enable creators to share up to eight short clips from a longer video, with each clip linking back to the full version. The goal is to allow users to discover content, such as podcast episodes or stand-up comedy sets, through short previews and then watch the complete video within the app.
Another feature under consideration is the ability to organize Reels into series, making it easier for viewers to navigate through episodes without searching individual profiles. This initiative aims to integrate longer content with existing Reels, rather than offering a separate viewing experience.
However, Instagram has not yet introduced a revenue model comparable to YouTube's for these extended videos. Challenges also remain regarding content discoverability within the app. Meta has stated that it is exploring ways for creators to monetize this new format.