Instagram now lets you speed up reels just like on TikTok
Instagram is adding yet another feature influenced by TikTok. Now, when you long press on the left or right side of your screen, you can watch a reel at 2x speed. This new playback option is all about giving users more control over how they consume content.
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Instagram now lets you speed up reels just like on TikTok
When TikTok first emerged, videos were limited to a mere 15 seconds. As creators and viewers demanded more flexibility, the platform expanded its video length and introduced features like increased playback speed. This shift helped pave the way for bite-sized entertainment that can be enjoyed at a faster pace.
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Instagram Reels Embracing New Options
Much like TikTok, Instagram started with 15-second reels and has gradually expanded its video duration to up to 3 minutes. The introduction of the fast-forward option allows users to breeze through content faster, ensuring that even longer videos remain engaging and accessible.
Why Slow Down Isn’t Always the Goal
Allowing users to speed up videos can make it easier for viewers to reach the end of longer reels, which is key in an era where short-form content reigns supreme. Some experts even suggest that the rise of brief, snappy videos might be affecting our ability to concentrate on longer content. For more insights into this ongoing discussion, read this article on attention spans today.
- New fast-forward option activated by long pressing either side of the screen
- 2x playback speed for quicker consumption of reels
- Adaptation of features originally popularized by TikTok
This feature isn’t entirely new for Instagram. The platform has a history of adapting popular tools from TikTok—its Remix tool is a well-known example that mirrors TikTok’s Duet functionality.
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Making the Most of Instagram’s New Speed Feature
The updated fast-forward ability is a smart move for Instagram. By letting users watch reels at 2x speed, the platform acknowledges that viewers often prefer to digest content quickly. This feature is set to make longer videos feel more dynamic and engaging, keeping users hooked throughout their viewing experience.
Whether you’re creating impactful reels or just enjoying a quick scroll through your feed, Instagram’s new addition is designed with your viewing habits in mind. This evolution reflects the ongoing trend of adapting platform features to satisfy an audience that values both brevity and creative expression.
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