There has been rumblings for weeks that the very popular TikTok app could get banned in the Untied States due to privacy issues, so here comes Instagram to the rescue with a new feature called Reels. This feature lets users create 15-second videos set to music, just like TikTok. It will also include a countdown timer and editing tools for easier use. Reels is set to become available on IG in August. Reels has been tested in other countries like Germany, and in this video from HeyDominik explains in more in depth how it works.
It’s worth noting Reels could be shared in a more permanent way, unlike most IG content which seems to be consumed on the passive Story feature. They do have IGTV but it’s not nearly as active as other part of the Gramaverse. Remember how much IG put a dent into Snapchat? Yeah, they have a track record of skimming some vibes from a competitor and drilling into their platform in some clever way.
In an interview this week, White House adviser Peter Navarro hinted TikTok could be shut down soon in the U.S.India banned TikTok due the same concerns over.
