Long before President Trump ever insinuated any sort of rule banning Tiktok, Instagram had started to develop a video sharing feature quite similar to that of Tiktok. This comes as Tiktok has been gaining steady and sharp growth in popularity since mid 2019.

In March 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in a lockdown, Tiktok outnumbered Instagram by far in most means. The growing popularity of the video sharing application’s content resulted in videos flocking to Instagram, and Instagram influencers on their turn to create accounts on Tiktok.

Is Instagram Trying to Revive its Glory?

Who knows? But it sure is one cool video sharing feature that will probably have us dancing.

So far, Reels has launched in key markets, like India, Brazil, France, Germany, the U.K, Japan, Australia, Spain, Mexico, Argentina… summing up its availability in 50 countries.

So How Does it Work?

Just like Tiktok, Reels allows you to record 15 second long videos to backing tracks, and add interactive and creative filters and effects. It also allows you to borrow original voices from others’ videos.

What About the For You Page (FYP)?

What About the For You Page (FYP)?As for how you can get the much seeked after exposure, Reels uses the Instagram explore page as the FYP. The purpose of the content featured on the explore page is to promote and encourage original creators.

The Explore page similar to the FYP algorithm is quite mysterious, however it is thought to be of similar strategy based on who you follow, and content you commonly engage with.

Instagram in its announcement states the following: “If your reel is featured in Explore, you’ll receive a notification. Featured reels are a selection of public reels chosen by Instagram to help you discover original content we hope will entertain and inspire you.”

Will Instagram Grow in Popularity?

The questions to be asked are: will Reels stand the test of time? Will it cause a surge in Instagram users?

The introduction of Instagram stories resulted in around 3x more users, so will this new feature have a similar effect knowing the fact it has a very popular competitor?

Time will tell.

For now, use it and enjoy if it is available in your location.