Instagram just added a new trick to its Reels. You can now watch videos two times faster by holding your finger on the screen. This feature works just like TikTok’s speed button. It helps people zoom through longer Reels without getting bored.
Reels used to be only 15 seconds long. Now, they can be up to three minutes. The faster speed lets viewers finish long videos quickly. This update is part of Instagram’s plan to keep up with TikTok.
How to Speed Up Reels
Using the fast feature is easy. Open any Reel on Instagram. Press and hold the right or left side of the screen. The video will play twice as fast until you let go.
This works for cooking demos, dance tutorials, or funny clips. A three-minute video becomes one-and-a-half minutes. The feature is available worldwide. You might need to update your app to see it.
Why Instagram Wants to Be Like TikTok
Instagram Reels has always copied TikTok. Both apps started with short videos. Both added longer videos over time. TikTok let users speed up videos years ago. Instagram is doing the same now.
This is not the first time Instagram has copied TikTok. The Remix feature for duets was also taken from TikTok. Instagram’s parent company, Meta, wants to keep users from leaving for TikTok.
What Creators and Viewers Think
Creators worry about watch time
Some video makers are nervous. People may reduce the time spent watching their videos when speeds become faster. Rapid video consumption negatively affects video maker performance metrics.
The Instagram platform asserts that fast playback provides enhanced functionalities for users. Audiences tend to watch entire lengthy video content rather than cutting them short. A travel blogger’s tips could get more views if busy fans speed through them.
Viewers love saving time.
Many users enjoy blasting through content. Students watch makeup tutorials faster between classes. Parents scan parenting hacks during nap time.
Is Fast Content Good or Bad
Watching videos quickly saves time. However, some experts think it trains brains to hate slow things. Movies, books, or school lessons might feel too boring after years of sped-up clips.
Instagram says research shows people understand fast videos fine. Still, parents and teachers worry about kids losing patience.
What This Means for Your Feed
Instagram’s new feature is here to stay. It gives viewers control and creators new challenges. The app might add more TikTok-style tools soon.
The next time you open Instagram, try the speed button. Race through a workout video or slow down a cute puppy reel. Social media keeps changing, but one thing is clear. Everyone wants your attention, and Instagram will keep copying tricks to get it.
