Reels May Become a Separate App as Instagram Seeks to Expand Its Short-Form Video Platform

Instagram is reportedly releasing its short-form video feature, Reels, as a separate app, as uncertainties over TikTok’s future in the US persist.  According to The Information, Instagram CEO Adam Mosseri addressed the prospective move with employees this week.  

The decision comes as the US government continues to put pressure on TikTok, citing national security concerns over its Chinese ownership by ByteDance.  The Biden administration has claimed that TikTok, which has 170 million US users, may be exploited by China for surveillance or political influence.  While US President Donald Trump had first delayed the date for TikTok to comply with US standards, there has been ongoing challenge about whether it will face a ban or be forced into a joint venture with US corporations.

Meta, Instagram's parent company, has not publicly commented on the potential of a separate Reels app. However, this wouldn’t be its first attempt to fight TikTok—Meta earlier introduced Lasso in 2018, but the app was later shut down.  

A standalone Reels app might help Instagram compete more directly with TikTok and attract users who may seek alternatives if a ban is imposed.  Opponents of a ban claim that it would limit freedom of speech.

As the scenario unfolds, Instagram's move could have a huge impact on the future of short-form video production.

This article is based on information from BBC