Meta has introduced an exciting new feature for Instagram users designed to enhance their experience with Reels. This update enables users to fast-forward through Reels videos, a function that has been a signature feature of TikTok’s platform for some time.
As reported by 9to5Mac, Instagram users can now watch Reels at double speed by tapping and holding on either side of the screen. This modification comes in response to the increasing length of Reels, which have transitioned from a maximum of 15 seconds to several minutes. While many users may find value in the ability to skip through longer videos, content creators are expressing concerns regarding the potential impact of diminished attention spans on audience engagement with longer content.
Meta’s approach appears to be aimed at bolstering its competitive stance against TikTok, which has significantly influenced the realm of short-form video content. TikTok first introduced the 2x playback speed feature back in 2013. In addition to these enhancements, Instagram is reportedly developing a new mobile video editing app known as Edits. Originally anticipated for release this month, the launch has now been postponed. The app is expected to provide tools for recording and editing videos directly on smartphones, setting it up as a competitor to CapCut, which is also tied to TikTok.
Instagram is evidently focused on reinforcing its position as a premier social media platform catering to an expanding demographic eager for quick and captivating content, while also providing more creative resources. Users interested in accessing these new features should ensure they have the latest version of the Instagram app installed.
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