Instagram is shaking things up once again, introducing a series of updates that promise to enhance the user experience and give creators more control. From a revamped feed to longer Reels and an upcoming editing app, these changes are setting the stage for a more dynamic and flexible platform. If you’re someone who loves creating and sharing content, Instagram’s latest features are designed with you in mind. Let’s dive into what you can expect from these exciting updates.
A New Profile Feed with More Control
One of the most notable updates is Instagram’s shift from the traditional square feed to a 4:5 format. Instagram’s head, Adam Mosseri, announced this change on his Instagram @Mosseri, and acknowledged the mixed reactions from users. He shared on Instagram, “We launched a new tall grid on profile this week and I got a lot of feedback, both positive and quite negative.” Mosseri explained that Instagram made this decision because most photos and videos uploaded to the platform are vertical. “Rectangles do a better job showing off those photos and videos,” he said.
However, Mosseri also recognized that this change disrupted users who carefully curated their grids. To address this, Instagram is working on new tools that will allow creators to customize their thumbnails and reorder their grids. He added, “In order to maintain creator control we’re building a tool so you can re-order your entire grid and make it whatever you want.”
This evolution of the profile layout will also include the integration of Highlights directly into the grid, offering a more streamlined way for creators to showcase their favorite stories. The goal, as Mosseri put it, is a “simpler, cleaner place that maintains, and even increases, creator control.” Instagram will roll out this update gradually over the next few months, so users can anticipate more customization options soon.
Longer Reels for More Storytelling
In a move that many creators have been eagerly awaiting, Instagram has extended the maximum length of Reels to three minutes. Previously capped at 90 seconds, the change reflects the growing demand for more time to tell longer, richer stories. Instagram’s @creators account explained, “90 seconds isn’t always enough time to tell a story just the way you want.” Now, creators in the United States can create Reels up to three minutes long, giving them greater flexibility in how they engage with their audience.
Adam Mosseri also addressed this update, saying, “We’ve heard the feedback that this is just too short for those who want to share longer stories. Hope this helps.” While this feature is currently limited to the U.S., Instagram plans to expand it to other regions soon, giving creators worldwide more room to express their creativity.
Reels Tab Enhancements
Alongside the longer Reels, Instagram has introduced several updates to the Reels tab, aimed at enhancing social interaction. Now, when users open the Reels tab, they’ll see a separate feed that highlights Reels liked by their friends. This is part of Instagram’s effort to make the platform not only a space for consuming content but also a place for connecting with friends over shared interests.
As Mosseri explained in a video, “Now, when you go to the Reels tab, you’ll see a dedicated feed of reels your friends have liked or added a note to… We’re rolling this out in a handful of countries to start, more to come soon.” This new feature is designed to make it easier for users to discover trending Reels and start conversations with their friends about the content they enjoy.
The Launch of Edits A New Video Creation App
One of the most exciting announcements is the upcoming launch of Instagram’s new app, Edits, which promises to revolutionize how creators edit and produce videos. Mosseri described Edits as “more than a video editing app,” and explained that it will offer a full suite of creative tools that allow users to not only edit their Reels but also manage ideas and collaborate with friends.
The Instagram creators guide @creators on Instagram provided a sneak peek into what users can expect: “With powerful editing capabilities, creative tools and actionable insights, Edits has all the tools you need to support your creation process in one place.” This app will compete with video editing apps like CapCut, providing features such as a higher-quality camera, the ability to share drafts with friends, and detailed insights into video performance.
Mosseri elaborated on Instagram, saying, “There’s a lot going on right now, but no matter what happens, it’s our job to provide the best possible tools for creators.” Instagram will launch Edits next month, but users can already pre-order it on the iOS App Store, with an Android version coming soon.
What’s Next for Instagram Creators
Instagram’s latest updates signal a clear shift toward giving creators more flexibility and control over their content. Whether it’s the introduction of the taller grid format, the extended length of Reels, or the upcoming Edits app, these changes are designed to help users tell their stories more effectively. While some of these features are still rolling out, there’s no doubt that Instagram is evolving to meet the needs of today’s digital creators. If you’re passionate about creating content on Instagram, these updates are sure to inspire new ways to share and connect with your audience.
