Instagram Reels Speed Control: Now Like TikTok!

Instagram Emulates TikTok with Reel Speed Control

Instagram, the social media platform owned by Meta, is once again implementing a feature initially popularized by TikTok. The latest addition allows users to accelerate the playback speed of Reels by simply holding their finger on either the right or left side of the screen.

The Evolution of Video Length and Speed

Initially, TikTok limited videos to a duration of 15 seconds. However, as the platform’s user base expanded and its influence grew, TikTok introduced support for extended video lengths.

Alongside this expansion, TikTok provided users with the functionality to increase video playback speed. This feature catered to a user base accustomed to rapidly consuming content.

Instagram Reels initially mirrored TikTok’s 15-second video limit. Currently, the platform supports Reels up to 3 minutes long.

Similar to TikTok, Instagram aims to enable users to view content at a faster pace with this new fast-forward capability.

Impact on Viewer Engagement and Attention Spans

Increasing the speed at which a video can be viewed potentially boosts the likelihood of a viewer completing longer Reels.

This is particularly relevant considering the core concept of Reels is to deliver concise, easily digestible entertainment.

There is growing concern that the prevalence of short-form video content may be diminishing attention spans and impacting the ability to concentrate on more extended formats.

A Pattern of Feature Replication

Considering the close resemblance between Instagram Reels and TikTok, it’s unsurprising that Instagram is adopting features directly from the short-form video pioneer.

This isn’t an isolated instance; Instagram’s Remix feature is demonstrably modeled after TikTok’s Duet tool.

The ongoing adoption of features from TikTok highlights Instagram’s strategy to remain competitive in the short-form video landscape.