Why Instagram is adding long-form videos
Instagram is to introduce long-form videos to the platform, despite being opposed to the idea for several years. On Monday, head of Instagram Adam Mosseri appeared in a video with the platform's vice president of products, Tessa Lyons, where he said a long-form video section called "Features" would be introduced in the weeks ahead. "We’re excited to give creators more room to tell their stories…
Instagram plans to launch long-form videos on its platform, reversing its previous stance against the concept. On Monday, Instagram's chief Adam Mosseri joined forces with the company's vice president of products, Tessa Lyons, in a video to unveil a dedicated section for long-form content dubbed "Features." The accompanying caption expressed enthusiasm about providing creators more space to narrate their stories within existing communities.
Adopting a video-centric approach, Meta has leaned heavily on short-form vertical videos akin to TikTok since introducing Reels. However, Mosseri noted, "There's just so much different format now happening around creativity and storytelling on video that we want to make sure that we're doing a good job of serving." He added that Instagram's team had examined data indicating users' interest in extended video content.
The company is leveraging user behavior observed in TV watching patterns to guide the development of its long-form video feature. Threads, Instagram's standalone app, featured Mosseri alongside two well-known content creators, Colin and Samir, who expounded on the upcoming update. The long-form videos will permit uploads of horizontal content up to 90 minutes long and will be viewable through condensed previews within the Reels section.
According to the Hollywood Reporter, Meta intends to pilot the long-form videos with a select number of US creators following a successful trial in Brazil. The Instagram for TV app, now accessible on Apple TV in the US, will incorporate the long-form "Features" content, enhancing the overall viewing experience.
Written by urgent.news from The National Business's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
