Hajra Naz
Instagram Launches New Video Creation App
Instagram’s parent company, Meta, announced a new app called Edits, designed for video creation. The app, similar to TikTok’s CapCut, aims to provide creators with advanced tools to craft engaging content. According to Instagram head Adam Mosseri, Edits is part of their effort to support video creators across multiple platforms.
Changes to Instagram’s Profile Photo Grid
In a move that mirrors TikTok’s layout, Instagram updated its profile photo grids to display images as rectangles instead of the app’s iconic squares.
Longer Reels Videos Now Allowed
The maximum duration of Reel videos on Instagram has been increased from 90 seconds to three minutes. Because of user feedback, Mosseri noted, “We’ve heard that 90 seconds isn’t enough for those wanting to share longer stories.”
Meta Responds to TikTok’s Shutdown and Comeback
The updates seem timed to capitalize on TikTok’s recent temporary shutdown in the United States. TikTok and its editing app, CapCut, went offline briefly due to a law banning them, only to come back after a last-minute intervention from Donald Trump. Despite this, Meta’s announcement of Edits came hours after TikTok resumed operations, reducing the potential impact of Instagram’s updates.
Instagram’s Competitive Push Against TikTok
Since its big appearance in 2020, TikTok has displayed a huge danger to Instagram by taking users’ interest and time. Instagram answered the starting campaign to boycott TikTok in 2020 by releasing Reels. Instagram has launched several new tools, including Edits, to compete in the short video market.
Other Alternatives Gain Traction
Despite Instagram’s efforts, other TikTok alternatives like RedNote gained traction during the temporary shutdown, while Instagram’s download numbers saw only a slight increase.
These updates highlight Instagram’s ongoing efforts to stay relevant in the face of TikTok’s dominance, offering users more tools and features to enhance their video creation experience.
