RECAP:
Meta has announced updates to Facebook Reels, expanding the length limit to 90 seconds, integrating Memories into the mix, adding ‘Grooves’ for automatic alignment with music, and expanding Reels templates. Reels views across Facebook and Instagram have more than doubled over the last year, and reshares of Reels have doubled across both platforms over the last six months. Meta’s expansion of Reels could potentially leave it well-placed to fill the void left by TikTok in case of a ban.
SUMMARY:
Meta has announced several new updates for Facebook Reels that include an expanded length limit, integration of Memories, new Grooves features, and expanded Reels templates option. Facebook Reels can now be up to 90 seconds long, which is an additional 30 seconds on the previous limit. The integration of Memories into the mix allows users to share their memories as Reels in the app, which could be an easy way to get more people engaging with the format and checking out Reels in the app. The new Grooves feature automatically aligns videos with the beat of the music users choose, similar to options available on TikTok.
Meta is also expanding its Reels templates option to Facebook, making it easier to replicate trending video styles and formats. Reels templates are already available on Instagram, with the new variation highlighting specific, trending clips. The short-form video format has been gaining popularity, and Meta seems to be doubling down on this trend where it can. The increased focus on Reels could potentially leave Meta well-placed to fill the void left by TikTok in case of a ban of the app, as seen in India, where both Instagram and YouTube have gained significant traction in the wake of the TikTok ban in that nation. Reels views across Facebook and Instagram have more than doubled over the last year, and reshares of Reels have doubled across both platforms over the last six months. Meta’s Reels replicant approach could be seen as a savvy development strategy rather than a lazy one, especially in the event of a TikTok ban.
Read more: Meta Adds New Features for Facebook Reels, Including Longer Clips and Memories Integration
