In January, during the uncertainty surrounding TikTok’s future in the U.S., Meta unveiled a powerful new video editing tool named Edits to rival CapCut, the popular video editing application developed by TikTok’s parent company, ByteDance. After a few months of anticipation, the Instagram Edits app is now officially accessible to all users.
Instagram Edits is not just another video editing tool; it functions as a comprehensive ideation, analytics, and project management platform tailored specifically for Instagram content creators. Upon opening the app for the first time, you’ll be prompted to connect it to your Instagram account, mirroring CapCut’s integration with TikTok. I had the opportunity to download and explore the app, and here are my insights from this hands-on experience.
A Hands-On Review of Instagram Edits
The Edits app features a user-friendly layout that allows easy navigation via a bottom toolbar. On the far left, you’ll find the Collections section, where you can access saved Reels, stickers, and notes. Adjacent to this, there’s the Reels page, where you can discover ideas for your next project. Once you find a suitable audio clip, you can opt to “Use Audio,” save it to your collection, or click the note icon to jot down your creative thoughts.
In the center of the app, you’ll find all your existing projects and an option to initiate new ones. To the right, the app allows you to record videos directly, offering customizable features such as resolution selection, FPS settings, music integration, green screen effects, and more. The rightmost page provides valuable Insights to help you assess your content’s performance.
It’s evident that this app is especially geared towards Instagram Reels creators, a sentiment echoed by Instagram’s Head, Adam Mosseri, in his Instagram post announcing the launch.
As for the editing features, they closely resemble those found in Instagram’s native video editor. Users can seamlessly add photos or videos, incorporate music, and apply transitions and effects. Some notable new features include an AI tool for animating subjects, a subject cutout feature, and a green screen option. However, during my exploration, the AI animation tool was sluggish, taking around 10 minutes to execute, which led me to abandon the attempt.
Truthfully, I found the app’s editing capabilities quite basic for a dedicated editing tool, particularly since it’s designed with Reel creators in mind. However, Mosseri has assured users that additional features are on the horizon, including keyframe support, collaboration options, and enhanced AI editing functionalities.
Considering the explosive growth of Instagram Reels, launching an associated editing app is a strategic move on Meta’s part. I believe it could have been introduced earlier, but it presents a valuable resource for many creators, particularly during the ideation phase. Available for both Android and iPhone, I encourage you to try the Edits app for yourself. If you’ve already explored it, share your thoughts in the comments below!
FAQ: Everything You Need to Know About Instagram Edits
What is Instagram Edits?
Instagram Edits is a versatile video editing tool launched by Meta, specifically designed for Instagram content creators. It integrates ideation, analytics, and project management into one platform.
Is Instagram Edits free to use?
Yes, Instagram Edits is available for free and can be installed on both Android and iOS devices.
Can I create videos without an Instagram account?
To use Instagram Edits, you must link the app to your Instagram account. This allows for enhanced features tailored to Reels creation.
What editing features does Instagram Edits offer?
Instagram Edits includes a variety of editing tools such as audio integration, transitions, effects, an AI animation tool, and a green screen feature. The app aims to provide everything needed for efficient Reel creation.
Are there any upcoming features for Instagram Edits?
Meta has promised to introduce additional features in the future, which may include keyframes, collaboration tools, and more AI-based editing functionalities.