Instagram is testing a new feature called Templates that will allow creators to create Reels by borrowing formats from other videos on the platform, according to a report by Insider (via TechCrunch). The feature looks a bit like TikTok’s own template tool, which allows creators to run their own content in a pre-made sequence.
Reverse engineer Alessandro Paluzzi spotted an early version of Templates in January, while marketing manager and influencer Josephine Hill had already tested the feature. In a screenshot released by Hill in March, it appears that users can exchange their own videos in predefined frames, as well as add their own audio. This could save users from using third-party templates from sites like Canva or from having to follow online tutorials closely to achieve a specific format, something Hill told Insider.
Instagram REELS announces a new feature! “Use as a template” allows the user to replace the videos with their own and will match the time stamps of the reel with a template. Tell me what you think about this feature. Does that make you want to create more drums? pic.twitter.com/rLMJAX89jG
– Joe Millie (@JosephineMedia) March 26, 2022
“We are always working on new ways to make Reels easier to create,” a Meta spokesman told Insider. “We’re testing your ability to make a drum using an existing template from another reel.” Instagram also told Insider that it is currently testing the feature with a small group of users. The Verge asked Instagram for comment, but did not receive a response immediately.
The test comes when Instagram is trying to attract more creators to Reels and addresses one of its biggest problems: re-posts on TikTok. Last year, Instagram said it would stop promoting Reels with TikTok watermarks, and earlier this week, Instagram CEO Adam Moseri announced that the platform would be even harder to fight by downgrading re-posts. Adding templates to the mix can make Reels videos easier and stimulate the creation of more original content.
Add Comment