Instagram is reportedly testing a new feature called “Trial Reels,” designed to help content creators test their reels without the pressure of immediate public scrutiny. According to a report from TechCrunch, this feature, which is currently in the global testing phase, has not yet been released in the stable version of the app.
What Is the ‘Trial Reels’ Feature?
The Trial Reels feature allows creators to share their reels with non-followers and gather feedback through metrics such as likes and comments. Based on these insights, creators can decide whether to share the reel with their followers or archive it.
The reel won’t appear on the creator’s profile and won’t automatically display to followers, but it can still reach them if someone shares the reel with a follower. The reel will be archived 24 hours after the creator makes their decision.
How Does the Trial Reels Feature Work?
The process is straightforward:
Creators can post a reel using the Trial Reels feature.
2. Gather Insights:
Instagram provides performance metrics, including plays, likes, comments, and shares.
3. Decide:
Based on these insights, creators can either share the reel with their followers or archive it.
This feature aims to provide a low-pressure environment for creators to experiment with new content ideas without risking their current follower base or the aesthetic of their profile.
Origin and Development
Alessandro Puluzzi, a reverse engineer, discovered Instagram‘s earlier “Experiment Mode” in April, and it later evolved into the Trial Reels feature. Experiment Mode allowed creators to post reels visible only to non-followers, which served as a precursor to the current iteration of Trial Reels.
Instagram indicated in a screenshot that even though the reel wouldn’t be visible on the creator’s profile, followers could still see it if shared directly. The reel would be archived after 24 hours if not made public.
Current Testing and Future Prospects
Instagram is experimenting with various iterations of the Trial Reels feature, including different durations before archiving. Creators participating in the test will see a notification introducing the feature when they publish a reel. Select creators with professional accounts can access the feature, which is not based on metrics like followers or other statistics.
Instagram’s Response and Community Impact
Instagram, a subsidiary of Meta, has not officially confirmed the widespread release of the Trial Reels feature. In a statement to TechCrunch, a Meta spokesperson said, “We’re always exploring different ways for creators to express themselves on Instagram, but nothing to share at the moment.”
The feature is being developed in response to creators’ concerns about the app’s algorithm negatively impacting their reach. By allowing creators to experiment without the fear of losing followers, Instagram aims to foster creativity and innovation.
Recent Updates to Instagram’s ‘Notes’ Feature
In addition to testing Trial Reels, Instagram recently enhanced its ‘Notes’ feature by adding support for likes, mentions, and prompts. Launched 18 months ago, the Notes feature has gained popularity, and these updates aim to make it more interactive and integral to the user experience.
The introduction of the Trial Reels feature is part of Instagram’s ongoing efforts to support content creators and address their concerns. By offering a platform for experimentation without immediate public exposure, Instagram hopes to encourage more creative and diverse content.
While the feature is still in the testing phase, its potential impact on the creator community could be significant, providing a new way for users to refine their content strategies and grow their audiences.
The information is taken from TechCrunch and MSN
