Instagram is rolling out a new feature called "trial reels," aimed at giving creators a safe space to experiment with content without the pressure of alienating their followers. This feature allows creators to share videos with users who do not follow them, offering a chance to test new ideas and content formats.
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How Trial Reels Work
To create a trial reel, creators select the "Trial" option while creating their video. The reel will be shown to non-followers, but it will not appear on the creator's main grid or reels tab. After 24 hours, creators can review the engagement metrics, including views, likes, comments, and shares, to evaluate how the content is performing.
If a trial reel is well-received, creators can choose to share it with everyone, expanding its reach. Additionally, Instagram offers an option for automation: If a trial reel performs well within the first 72 hours, Instagram can automatically share it with the creator's followers. This setting can be adjusted by the creator at any time.
Benefits for Creators
The trial reels feature is designed to help creators experiment with new genres, topics, or storytelling styles without the fear of losing their established audience. As Instagram VP Ashley Alexander explained, creators often hesitate to try new content types because they don’t want to alienate their followers. This feature is particularly helpful for creators, such as fashion influencers, who might want to explore other interests (e.g., music) but fear alienating their audience.
The feature began rolling out on Tuesday and will be available globally to eligible creators in the coming weeks. While trial reels won’t appear on a creator's profile, a follower could still see one if it is shared directly with them. This change could encourage more diverse and innovative content on the platform, as creators are given more flexibility to try new ideas.