Instagram has added a new feature that lets creators link several Reels together so viewers can watch them in order. The company told TechCrunch that the tool is live and rolling out to users now. Creators can join follow-up videos into a single series so viewers do not need to search for part two or part three.
How the series feature works
Creators can link Reels while they add a caption. Creators can also link older Reels by opening the overflow menu on a posted Reel and choosing to add it to a series. Once a creator links Reels in a series, viewers will see a small button in the bottom left of the Reel. That button will let viewers move to the next linked Reel.
Why this change matters for creators
The new series feature helps creators tell longer stories in several short videos. It is a better way to publish multi-part content. Viewers can follow a story without losing the thread. Instagram says creators asked for this feature and that it should help creators keep viewers engaged for longer.
How this helps discovery and growth
When viewers stay longer to watch more parts, creators may see higher watch time. Higher watch time often leads to more visibility on the app. Instagram also said the feature can help casual viewers become followers. The company believes making it easier to find related Reels will help creators grow their audiences.
How creators can use series
Creators can use the series feature for story-style videos. Creators can use it for tutorials and step-by-step guides. Creators can also group similar videos, for example, recipes or craft projects, so followers can find them in one place. The feature is simple to use inside the caption editor or the overflow menu.
Viewer experience
The new navigation button makes it easy for viewers to tap through a set of related Reels without leaving the page. The linked Reels play in order. Viewers do not need to search or scroll to find a follow-up video.
How this compares to other apps
Other short video apps already offer ways to link or sequence videos. Instagram’s new option brings a similar capability to Reels. Creators who post on multiple apps can use this to keep series-style content neat and easy to follow on Instagram as well.
What creators should test first
Creators should test how viewers respond to linked Reels. It may help to place clear markers like part one and part two in captions. Creators should pay attention to watch time and follower changes after they try the series feature. That data will show whether a series helps audience growth.
Instagram asserted that the feature is now available and that it was built in response to creator demand. The company plans to keep refining the tools as creators use them.